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Fowler Snag

The collapse of a land purchase deal for the proposed $35-million "Jim Fowler's Life in the Wild" park could complicate implementation of the long-sought tourism project for Holmes and Washington counties. Holmes County Development Commission canceled the $3.9-million sale of 760 acres it owns on Smith's Lake to Fowler's Parks and Wildlife Services organization after the Fowler group indicated a financial backer objected to the contract's land-use restrictions. The two groups are still hoping to reach agreement, however, representatives say. Park developer Barbara Farris, meanwhile, told the Holmes County Commission she's finalizing purchase of an adjacent 6,000 acres for the project and ready to move ahead with plans.