State Natural Resources Board OKs purchase of Fossil Creek forestland

The state Board of Natural Resources authorized the purchase of 834 acres of working forestland in Wahkiakum County from a private seller for $2.19 million at the board's January 7 meeting.

DNR will manage the acquired parcels to support quality stream and forest habitat for fish and wildlife, while producing sustainable long-term income to the Common School Trust, which funds public school construction statewide.

The parcels that are being acquired from Mid-Valley Resources of Oregon abut several hundred acres that DNR also manages for natural resources income to trust beneficiaries, including the Common School Trust and public services in Wahkiakum County. Funding for the purchase comes from previous sales of less-productive Common School Trust lands.