SAVANNAH — A former dumping ground near Savannah, once used by litterers to drop off abandoned tires, furniture and deer carcasses, has been transformed into a wetlands area.

The 494-acre wetland preserve and park now will be used for nature and recreation enthusiasts, the Savannah Morning News reported. Chatham County is preparing to open the land to the public.

Trails wind around a lake and through the wetlands, where algae-covered water surrounds Cyprus trees. The area includes spots to launch kayaks and other non-motorized boats on the lake.

The county bought the property off U.S. Highway 17 for about $950,000 13 year ago. Since then, more than 20,000 trees have been planted and other improvements made.

Chatham County Commissioner Helen Stone called the property an asset to the community. She and other county officials toured the property this week.

Officials say they hope to have remaining work on the area completed and be able to open it to the public by February.