(Lewis, Iowa) –  In October, the Cass County Conservation Board announced their annual Trumpeter Swan contest was underway, with the question of “When do you think the first Trumpeter Swan will arrive at the Schildberg [Recreation} Quarry (in Atlantic)?” We now have the answer, and a winner! The sponsors of the contest have determined the official arrival of the swans as December 2nd! On that day 10 Trumpeter Swans were here and stayed more than twenty-four hours. The winner that was the closest to that date was Alice Brown! Alice Brown will receive a Trumpeter Swan Prize from the Cass County Conservation Board. Cass County Conservation thanks to all who participated!

Speaking of the swans, you’re invited to join the Cass County Conservation Department on January 3rd, 2026, for their “Soriee with the Swans,” at Atlantic’s Schildberg Recreation Area- Lake number 4. Conservation staff will give ten-minute presentations about Trumpeter Swans every half-hour, beginning at 11:00 a.m., with the last one being presented at 2:00 p.m. There will also be time to view the swans through spotting scopes and witness random swan feeding sessions. Hot chocolate, cookies, and other snacks will be provided free of charge with donations being accepted (for swan care).

The Schildberg Recreation Area is located on the northwest edge of Atlantic, Lake 4 is on the north side of Highway 83. Atlantic is celebrating 25 winters of the Trumpeter Swans wintering here. This event is not to be missed! IF THE WEATHER IS “BAD” OR THE SWANS ARE NOT AT THE PARK…the program will be at the Atlantic Public Library from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. with hot chocolate, cookies, and other snacks available. The event is being sponsored by the Cass County Conservation Board, Atlantic Parks and Recreation, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.