Kane County’s Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve has reopened to the public following renovations designed to accommodate increased visitor interest in a newly established bison herd. The preserve, located on the border of Kane and DeKalb counties approximately 60 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, welcomed visitors beginning May 1 after a delayed spring reopening.

The small herd of six American bison was introduced to the preserve in December as part of a collaborative conservation initiative between the Kane County Forest Preserve District and the American Indian Center of Chicago, which owns the animals. The bison now roam more than 30 acres of restored tallgrass prairie, managed by Ruhter Bison, a family-owned business specializing in bison and prairie conservation.

While the preserve’s gates typically open April 1, this year’s reopening was postponed to allow for site improvements in preparation for an anticipated increase in visitors drawn by the new herd. Upgrades include a gravel parking lot with capacity for 41 vehicles and three school buses, as well as a split-rail fence added to the north and west perimeters alongside an existing electric fence.

Since reopening, visitors have taken advantage of the opportunity to observe the bison grazing near the enclosure’s fence. Mario Rabaza, a wildlife and landscape photographer from nearby Sycamore, expressed enthusiasm about the herd and indicated plans to visit again with friends. Laurie Metanchuk, the Kane County Forest Preserve District’s community engagement director, said visitor numbers were modest but steady on opening day, with expectations of growing interest in the coming weeks.

The district plans to offer educational programming at Burlington Prairie, including talks on bison ecology, their relationships with birds in the prairie ecosystem, and the cultural significance of bison to Native American communities. Additionally, there are proposals to expand the bison enclosure to approximately 100 acres, potentially increasing the herd size to around 25 animals over time.

Originally intended for agricultural use, the land’s purpose shifted to bison conservation following reconsideration by the Forest Preserve District. A portion of Burlington Prairie remains untouched by plowing, representing a rare remnant of native prairie habitat in the region. The initiative marks a significant step in local efforts to restore and preserve native ecosystems while fostering public engagement with the area’s natural and cultural heritage.