New 30-Acre Nature Preserve Opens in Northern Marathon County
Visitors to northern Marathon County now have the opportunity to explore a newly opened 30-acre nature preserve, featuring a protected trout stream, lush forest, and expansive wetlands.
The Big Cain Creek Preserve, managed by the North Central Conservancy Trust (NCCT), was recently inaugurated, thanks to a generous land donation by Mary Binkley in spring 2025. Binkley, a Wausau native, inherited the land from her parents, who purchased it in the 1960s for recreational purposes. “Our primary interest is protecting the natural resources that make it so special, but we also want to provide access for gentle recreation activities such as hiking, bird-watching and exploring,” stated Chris Radford, executive director of NCCT, on WPR’s “Morning Edition.”
The NCCT, a nonprofit organization dedicated to land conservation throughout central Wisconsin, safeguards over 5,500 acres across more than 60 properties through conservation easements and ownership. The Big Cain Creek Preserve becomes the latest addition to the four public preserves managed by the trust. More information about their protected lands can be found on their official website.
Big Cain Creek, a notable feature of the preserve, traverses over a quarter-mile of the area. Classified by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as a Class 1 trout stream, it supports a self-sustaining trout population. Furthermore, it is recognized as an Exceptional Resource Water, highlighting its ecological and recreational importance. Details regarding the preserve’s establishment can be accessed here.
Before opening to the public, NCCT volunteers and experts meticulously surveyed the terrain to ensure that trails and amenities were thoughtfully integrated without disturbing sensitive ecological areas. “We established the trail route based on what would provide a good visitor experience while having the least impact on the natural resources there,” Radford explained. The preserve now features a half-mile trail leading to the creek, complete with seating areas and an informative kiosk.
The preserve is accessible to the public during daylight hours, with guidelines in place to protect its natural assets. Motorized vehicles are not permitted, and visitors are urged to respect the environment to maintain the preserve’s conservation goals alongside recreational use.
Understanding Land Trusts
Chris Radford describes a land trust as “a community nonprofit dedicated to the protection of land.” The NCCT, one of approximately 40 land trusts in Wisconsin, focuses on conserving the natural heritage of central Wisconsin via permanent conservation easements and nature preserves.
Ecological Significance of Big Cain Creek
The preserve boasts a rich biodiversity, with forests comprising oak, spruce, elm, sugar maple, red maple, and yellow birch, alongside forested wetlands home to balsam fir and tag alder. This diverse habitat supports both local and migratory wildlife, while providing a natural buffer that helps preserve the water quality of the creek.
Guidelines for Gentle Recreation
NCCT emphasizes the importance of “gentle recreation,” which excludes motorized vehicles and encourages activities like hiking and bird-watching. The primary infrastructure includes the hiking trail, benches, and an entrance kiosk, ensuring minimal intrusion into the natural landscape.
