Governor Kathy Hochul announced one of the largest land returns ever in U.S. history, which is happening right here in Onondaga County.

More than 1,000 acres of land in the Tully Valley will be returned to Onondaga Nation to create a wildlife and brook trout sanctuary. The land is located in the area of I-81 and Route 80 in the towns of Tully and Lafayette.

A legal settlement with Honeywell comes from the release of mercury and other hazardous substances into Onondaga Lake. This agreement features 18 restoration projects which includes the historic land return.

In addition to the ecological benefits, the New York State DEC commissioner says the move is also a small step in correcting mistakes from the past.

"Now we can look to turn the page the wrongs of the past when the lands were taken away from the nation and use this as a chance to heal and to move into a management of the land for the betterment of the indigenous people and the environment," said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos.

The Onondaga Nation will also develop a Restoration Management Plan which will determine recreation and public use on the land.