Atlantic Resident Proposes Wildlife Prairie Restoration for Schildberg Recreation Area

(Atlantic) Atlantic resident Frank Saddlemire is advocating for the restoration of the Schildberg Recreation Area into a wildlife prairie.

During Wednesday afternoon’s regular meeting of the Atlantic Park and Recreation Department Advisory Commission, Saddlemire presented his vision for the Schildberg Recreation Project. He collaborated with Cass County Conservation Office Executive Director Micah Lee and Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist Nick Thompson to develop a plan.

According to Saddlemire, if the city follows Thompson’s recommended procedures over the next two years, the area could successfully transition into a thriving wildlife prairie. He emphasized the project’s benefits, including increased biodiversity with birds, insects, pollinators, butterflies, and bees. Additionally, he highlighted the aesthetic appeal of native grasses, the positive impact on soil health and the ecosystem, and the minimal maintenance required for upkeep.

Saddlemire speculated converting the park into a wildlife prairie could save taxpayers approximately $25,000 over five years just in maintenance costs. .

Saddlemire believes this project could entice more people to come to Atlantic, to visit this native prairie. Saddlemire says the project would consist of 10 to 12 acres, and there are 12 to 15 different cost share programs that could supply the knowledge, and seed to help the city get the project off the ground. The Parks Advisory Commission is taking Saddlemire’s idea into consideration. The proposed project will be put on next months Advisory Commission agenda. If they decide to move forward, the ultimate decision comes down to the city council.