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Washburn, N.D. (AP) A group that advises the governor on land purchases by nonprofits is to meet in Washburn on Tuesday, in conjunction with a McLean County Commission meeting.

The North Dakota Natural Areas Acquisition Advisory Committee eventually will recommend whether Ducks Unlimited should be allowed to buy 321 acres of land near Mercer from the California man who owns it.

Gov. John Hoeven will have the final say. In February, he rejected a proposed Ducks Unlimited land buy in Kidder County involving nearly 600 acres, following the recommendation of the advisory group and the County Commission.

The advisory group has until mid-May to make its recommendation on the McLean County proposal.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-03-09 1201CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list