Deal preserves 230 acres around Sprague

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The state of Connecticut has struck an agreement that will preserve 230 acres of open space in the towns of Sprague and Franklin.

The office of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says the state will award the town of Sprague an acquisition grant of $276,000 to buy the property. It said Wednesday that the deal will ensure the property is not exposed to development in line with the wishes of the family.

The land is part of an expanse of agricultural fields and wooded areas known as the Watson Estate. The land abuts the Shetucket River and borders the 270-acre Sprague Land Preserve, which was also purchased with a state land acquisition grant in 2005.

The deal was approved by the Sprague Board of Selectmen on Monday evening.