The Natural Land Institute acquires 327 acres of land that straddles that state line along Raccoon Creek.
Executive Director Alan Branhagen says the Jerry and Kathy Busse Prairie Preserve is a goldmine of natural features.
Many threatened an endangered species have been found in the area including the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly, Blanding’s Turtle, and Rusty Patched Bumble Bee.
Branhagen says the Natural Land Institute purchased the property for $816,00, which included a $500,000 donation from the Busses.
The new natural area is located just north of the Lost Flora Fen on Raccoon Creek in southern Rock County and northern Winnebago County.
