A private golf course in Michaux State Forest in southcentral Pennsylvania is getting a new lease on life.

The state Department of Natural Resources (DCNR) renewed the lease of the South Mountain Golf Course run by the George family for 10 years, said Rep. Chad Reichard, R-Franklin, Monday.

The lease was set to expire at month’s end. The golf course has operated for decades on land leased from the state.

DCNR sought to use that land in Quincy Township to build a new visitor and interpretive center for the heavily used Michaux State Forest.

Reichard said grassroots pressure and support from Republican lawmakers helped save the golf course.

He mentioned a citizens petition drive and support from House Minority Leader Jesse Topper, R-Bedford and local Reps. Rob Kauffman, R-Franklin, and Sen. Doug Mastriano, R-Franklin, among others.

“They helped guide me, a lawmaker in his first year in office, and amplified my voice, so that DCNR heard it loud and clear,” said Reichard.

He also credited Gov. Josh Shapiro for intervening to keep the golf course open.

“I am grateful he recognized forcing a small business to close was not in the best interest of our community,” he said.