Gov. finalizes deal for state to buy big ranch

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HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Gov. Brian Schweitzer says a $16.5 million deal has been finalized for the state to buy a big ranch near Deer Lodge that is home to prized elk habitat.

The deal, wrapped up Thursday, was approved by various state boards and commissions before Schweitzer gave his stamp of approval.

The money to buy the 27,000-acre Rock Creek Cattle Co. will come from the state Natural Resource Damage Program, which manages money aimed at replacing resources lost to mining in the region. The Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks will manage the land.

Schweitzer says it will be open for hunting.

The deal met some resistance from those opposed to more government ownership of land and others who thought the deal was a misuse of money meant to make amends for mining damage.

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