This is more than recreational land; it is a preserved piece of Wisconsin prairie heritage.

Set on the Waushara-Marquette County border, near the famed Mecan River corridor, this remarkable 229.52± acre prairie preserve represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a truly meaningful piece of Wisconsin landscape. Rolling topography, native prairie, mature oak wooded ground, wetland habitat, open grasslands, and a secluded pond combine to create an incredibly diverse privately owned property rich with wildlife, beauty, and purpose.

For decades, the late John Shillinglaw devoted himself to restoring and protecting this rare ecosystem. Long before prairie restoration became widely recognized, he understood the importance of preserving native habitat and carefully managed the property to support pollinators, wildlife, and the endangered Karner blue butterfly. The carefully managed prairie habitat includes established lupine stands essential to supporting Karner blue butterfly populations. Through years of stewardship and vision, the land evolved into an extraordinary conservation landscape that now stands permanently protected within a conservation trust designed to safeguard its ecological integrity for generations to come.

The property’s conservation protections preserve the prairie and habitat values that make it so unique. Future use is intentionally limited, with no tillage, cattle grazing, or large-scale development permitted. A small camping cabin could potentially be allowed, offering the opportunity for a quiet basecamp immersed within the landscape while maintaining the long-term preservation goals of the property.

Beyond the conservation significance, this is simply an outstanding privately held recreational hunting property. The area is widely known for excellent hunting and wildlife habitat, and this farm is no exception. Strong populations of deer and turkey utilize the diverse mix of prairie cover, mature oak stands, wetlands, and edge habitat throughout the property. The pond regularly attracts ducks and geese, while the wetland prairie portions create ideal habitat for countless bird species and native wildlife. Trout fishing is within walking distance on the Mecan River.

An existing small camping area with storage sheds near the pond creates an ideal setup for weekend retreats, hunting camp, or simply enjoying the peace and solitude the property offers. Multiple access points from the surrounding lightly used township roads provide excellent usability and access throughout the property while maintaining privacy and functionality across the diverse terrain.

There is a feeling here that is difficult to replicate — the sound of wind moving across the prairie, waterfowl dropping into the pond at sunset, deer slipping through the oaks, and endless skies stretching over permanently protected land.

Please call the listing agent, Dave Schutt, for details regarding the conservation easement or to schedule your private showing on this truly unique piece of property.