This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. The Oklahoma Wildlife Federation, with strong support from such national organizations as the Audubon Society and many Oklahoma state agencies, is spearheading an effort to generate support for the preserve. A statewide petition drive was chosen as the vehicle. Gov. George Nigh was the first signer. Eventual development of the preserve would include campgrounds, hiking trails and a nature center where the ecology of the area would be explained.
Plans call for reintroducing the buffalo and prairie elk.
Osage County is already home to Oklahoma's largest herd of whitetail deer and wild turkeys and prairie chickens also inhabit the grasslands. Many lesser types of animal life, unusual insects and uncommon plant life may also be found on the rolling plains. In some areas, the plain is slashed by steep, timbered canyons cut through by spring-fed streams. The canyons are as scenic and rugged as the prairie is stark and empty. Both types of terrain are havens for many types of uncommon birds and other wildlife.