OREGON – The state has bought 64 acres of the former Sinnissippi Forest Christmas tree farm for $450,000 and is adding the parcel to Lowden-Miller State Forest.

The purchase, one of four land deals meant to boost public access to hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation, will provide access to the eastern part of the forest, Gov. Pat Quinn’s office said in a news release Wednesday.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will use the buildings on the site for satellite offices and equipment storage, Director Marc Miller said.