New York State has acquired almost 8,000 acres of land along the south branch of the Grass River in the northwestern corner of the Adirondack Park in the towns of Colton and Clifton in St. Lawrence County.

According to a press release, the state purchased a conservation easement for a sustainable working forest on more than 7,000 acres, while adding 947 acres to the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The land connects already protected land that is part of the Grass River Complex, including the Tooley Pond area.

The protected land was bought with $4.3 million from the state Environmental Protection Fund.

“The newly acquired land will protect the scenic and natural resources of this region, provide high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities, and ensure sustainable forest management that contributes to local economies,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in the release.

The land will include access for motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles, and non-motorized users, including hikers and bicyclists.

“It is important that we take steps to preserve our natural resources,” said State Senator, Joe Griffo, a Republican. “By acquiring almost 8,000 acres of forest and easement lands along the Grasse River, we can ensure that this land is protected and that the public has access to a variety of recreational opportunities and outdoor activities.”

The state Department of Environmental Conservation is working on an interim management plan until a permanent one can go through the public input process.