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A $5 million government allocation will allow for the purchase of 1,087 acres to expand West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest, in addition to other improvements to the pristine area.
West Virginia Democrat Sen. Robert C. Byrd said the expansion money is part of an estimated $10 million in federal funds slated for projects in West Virginia.
Byrd said legislation containing the money was signed into law Tuesday by President Barack Obama.
The U.S. Forest Service says purchasing the Randolph County property will protect sensitive resources, enhance recreation and public access and protect the region's historic and aesthetic features.
Projects in the New River Gorge National River Park, Canaan Valley Wildlife Refuge and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park also benefit from the legislation. | 
