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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Some property owners in a five-county area bordering the Missouri River in North Dakota say they feel they were ambushed when the area picked up an overnight designation one that many can't seem to figure out.

After President Barack Obama signed the designation into law March 30, the region that includes McLean, Mercer, Oliver, Morton and Burleigh counties became the Northern Plains Heritage Area.

Fending off the accusations, officials involved say this is no land grab.

A representative of the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation and North Dakota Sen. Byron Dorgan who sponsored the designation say it makes up to $10 million in federal money available over 15 years.

The funds can go to preserve cultural resources and promote tourism.

Information from: Bismarck Tribune, http://www.bismarcktribune.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-12-09 1316CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list