An area of Kansas that was mined for its lead and zinc deposits to fuel industrial production more than a century ago is getting a new life and purpose.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism is purchasing some 700 acres in southeast Kansas that will be used for public recreation. Funding comes through a federal program that seeks to clean up contaminants left by 150 years of mining and smelting.

Members of the State Finance Council approved purchasing the land in the Neosho River basin in Cherokee, Crawford, Labette and Neosho counties.

The land includes prairie, wetlands and other bodies of water that will be used for hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. It will be managed by existing state staff in the region.