An Ogle County official voiced his elation Tuesday over the state's decision last week to purchase a portion of the former Sinnissippi Forest Christmas tree farm southeast of Oregon.

"I think it's great for the Oregon area and the county," said Ogle County Board Chairman Kim Gouker. "I think it shows the state realizes the value of this area. It's a great endorsement of our are that the state would spend the money."

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