Oregon approves $2m deal to protect 92-foot Abiqua Falls and open public access

Oregon has approved a $2 million purchase of Abiqua Falls, ending concerns that the famous 92-foot waterfall could remain in private hands after its owner put the property up for sale earlier this year. The deal includes the waterfall and 160 acres of land in Marion County, with the state planning to protect the site and provide public access.The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved the sale from the Abbey Foundation of Oregon on Wednesday, KGW8 reported. The foundation had owned the property for more than 100 years and put it up for sale in February, raising concerns among members of the public and lawmakers about what could happen to the popular natural landmark if it went to another private owner.Abiqua Falls is located near Scotts Mills, east of Salem. The waterfall drops 92 feet into a pool surrounded by ferns, moss-covered rocks and a basalt cliff.