The US Forest Service (USFS) and the Trust for Public Land (TPL) announced that 1,247 acres of timberland along the West Branch of the Ontonagon River — including Victoria Reservoir shoreline and overlooks — have been permanently protected. TPL acquired the acreage from Lyme Timber for its appraised value. The acquisition builds on the TPL’s conservation efforts in the Ottawa National Forest, which have protected 43,000 acres to date. “From recreation opportunities to water pollution prevention to biodiversity promotion, protecting natural areas like this has important environmental and social benefits,” said USFS Supervisor Darla Lenz. The area includes the North Country National Scenic Trail, a popular 4,800-mile hiking trail that passes through eight states. Read more HERE.