KLAWOCK -- Gov. Sean Parnell said the Southeast State Forest, established with legislation he signed Monday, is intended to create new jobs and be a first step toward revitalizing the timber industry in that part of the state.

Parnell's office said this is the third forest in the state forest system and the first addition since 1983. It covers nearly 25,300 acres.

The Department of Natural Resources will be charged with managing the land for multiple uses, including a long-term supply of timber for local wood processors.