John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)

Description :

Once owned by John M. Olin, this 294-acre preserve has been dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve and is managed and currently owned by The Nature Institute (TNI). This rare and unique property has been the site of numerous studies on flora and fauna. For 40 years, volunteers and TNI staff have actively maintained its natural beauty by removing invasive plants and replanting native species of tallgrass prairie, oak and hickory trees, and other Illinois vegetation. The Olin Nature Preserve overlooks the Mississippi River and contains steep limestone bluffs and other features of karst topography including sinkholes, ravines, and bedrock outcrops. Visitors will also find small streams, a waterfall, upland forest and hill prairies.