MISSOULA - The Missoula area now has a new public haven for elk and other wild animals.

The Missoula City Council and the Missoula Board of County Commissioners have both agreed to picking up part of a the tab for a $1.8 million conservation easement. The deal focuses on 207 acres of the Spooner Creek Ranch, a working ranch in the Upper Miller Creek Valley.

The city has agreed to add $25,000 to the cost, while the county kicked in $175,000. The Anderson family, which owns the land, contributed the remaining $1.6 million.

The easement, which includes lush pasture and forest, will be overseen by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

City councilwoman Marilyn Marler said the acreage is a treasure for everyone who lives in the area.