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HELENA, Mont. (AP) State officials are citing urban growth as a reason for swapping a piece of land near Pablo for another near Ronan next to the Ninepipe Wildlife Management Area.

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission is approving the exchange of 223 acres in the Pablo Wildlife Management Area for 240 privately owned acres neighboring the Ninepipe.

Both state-owned areas are between Polson and St. Ignatius.

Development around Polson has slowly encroached around the Pablo acreage, including a nearby drag racing and stock racing track.

Both pieces are valued at about $600,000.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-13-09 1058CST | save this article / add to your favorites list