As part of a larger plan to protect Fort Drum from federal cutbacks, Gouverneur Hospital will receive $100,000 from the state, according to Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton.

The money is part of a plan “to help preserve the future of Fort Drum and strengthen health care services to soldiers and their families, as well as residents across the North Country,” Ritchie said.

Gouverneur Hospital will use the money to buy new ultrasound equipment.

“For parents, the first ultrasound—the first time they see their baby to be—is an extremely exciting time, and this technology also helps doctors and nurses in ensuring the good health of babies and moms alike,” said Marlinda LaValley, CEO of Gouverneur Hospital. “Funding secured by Senator Ritchie will help us to purchase new ultrasound equipment to improve the experience for the many military couples and countless other North Country residents.”

The new funds target four area hospitals, including Gouverneur, that serve long-term residents, as well as members of the military. In addition, the Development Authority of the North Country will receive funding to help local governments coordinate planning and development projects that impact on the Army post, Ritchie said.

The bulk of funding announced today comes from a special “base retention” fund that was included in the state budget, Ritchie said.

Over four years, the fund has included $12 million that’s been locally used to help relieve a housing crunch in the area surround Fort Drum, expand health care options and to pay farmers and others to preserve open space “buffer zones” near the post that allow military training operations to continue.

Army planners are considering major cutbacks to U.S. troop strength that could have a major impact in the future of Fort Drum and other military installations, according to Ritchie. The Army is expected to announce its plans in the coming weeks.

Ritchie’s 48th Senate District includes most of northern and western St. Lawrence County.