WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (AP) — Rescued farm animals will be heading from California to upstate New York with the 96-acre expansion of Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes.

The animal protection organization says the land acquisition will provide broader access to forest and pastures for animal residents.

The organization says it's closing operations at its shelter in Orland, California and moving the residents to its flagship Watkins Glen property. It will continue its rescue work in Acton, California.

The organization says annual tourist visits to the Watkins Glen site has grown to nearly 10,000. It provides bed and breakfast facilities, tours and seasonal celebrations.

Farm Sanctuary provides care for rescued animals, such as 24 starving pigs removed from filthy conditions at a western New York farm in January.

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