DAVIS JUNCTION – The Natural Land Institute has purchased 149 acres in Ogle County surrounding the Beach Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve near Davis Junction, closing March 17, 2026, to expand protection of one of Illinois remaining prairie remnants and a historic cemetery dating back to the 1850s. The purchase was funded through proceeds from donated farmland sales and support from the group land acquisition fund.
Executive Director Alan Branhagen said the site carries deep historical value, explaining “it’s an old historic cemetery that’s on what’s now Big Mound Road, just southwest of Davis Junction,” and noting that the area includes burials from the 1800s along with prairie that was never plowed.
He said the project is also about long term conservation, adding “protecting these little tiny postage stamps of things really doesn’t work in the long run,” as the organization plans to restore prairie habitat, manage farmland areas through 2027, and begin restoration work that targets rare plants and controls invasive species.
An open house for the property is planned for September 9, 2026.