Acres added to refuge in Kentucky

The Green River National Wildlife Refuge in western Kentucky is expanding by 437 acres. “America’s wildlife refuges support good jobs and treasured opportunities for outdoor recreation. By expanding the Green River National Wildlife Refuge, we are preserving Kentucky’s precious wilderness and cherished pastimes for future generations,” said Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., in a statement.

The area is expected to open to the public later this year for limited recreational activities. Hunting and fishing will be allowed after a required planning session and more land is acquired.

The newly established refuge in Henderson was created with a small amount of acreage near the confluence of the Ohio and Green rivers to protect wetland forest important for migrating waterfowl, songbirds, fish and other wildlife. The USFWS has identified a 53,000-acre Conservation Partnership Area, with plans to assemble 24,000 acres from donations and willing sellers.

Read more from the Associated Press.