[3] A Nature Conservancy planning process, aimed at building a restored tallgrass prairie ecosystem in Illinois, commenced in 1985; the first major land acquisition of 400 acres (160 ha) occurred in 1986.

[5] The replacement plans include expansion to allow more space for convening volunteers, partners, scientists and community leaders.

In April 2015, free-range bison calves were born, adding to hope that the Nachusa herd could be managed so as to be self-sustaining.

[12] The preserve's visitor center includes nearby trailheads, a pavilion with interpretive signage, self-composting restrooms, and a potable water supply.

Attributes included fulfilling its mission without overpowering the surrounding landscape and that "the facility draws visitors into an interpretive rich shelter framing distant views telling the story of the vast prairie beyond" [14]