By Emmy Ulmschneider
Master Gardener
In our previous article, we examined the challenges migrating Monarchs face and how their survival is impacted. Monarch Joint Venture calls for an all-hands-on deck response from the international to the individual level. So, what is being done in the United States, in Texas, and our area.
At the national level in December 2020, the Monarch was given an “enhancement of survival” listing. What this means is that permitted agencies can oversee and co-ordinate participation with partners who take voluntary conservation action. The agreement encourages transportation and energy partners to participate in Monarch conservation by providing and maintaining habitat on potentially millions of acres of rights-of-way and associated lands. The Monarch population status will be reviewed again in December 2024.
National organizations are also helping through information, videos, online classes, and training. Monarch Watch oversees the tagging envisioned and started over thirty years ago. Journey North tracks the Monarch migration in real time through the posts of citizen scientists. Xerces and National Wildlife Federation (NWF) have a variety of programs for interested people from improving your backyard habitat and finding native plants to becoming a Monarch Steward.
At the state level we can see some of the results of the federal provisions. Texas does have a state Monarch and Pollinator Conservation Plan. TxDOT under the enhancement of survival provision has started a program to improve habitat along transportation corridors as have some energy companies. Two state organizations, Texan by Nature and the Native Plant Society of Texas have resources, programs, and education to help you make a difference.
Although these steps are much needed, we can really make a difference at the local, individual level. You may be the Monarchs best hope! To the migrating Monarch, our average urban yard is a veritable wasteland. But we can change that by planting native plants! Why natives? Because they are adapted to our
conditions where rain is sparse, and surface water is available sparingly. Our plant choices need to “fit” where we live! Ideally, we are planting real deal natives, not cultivars or nativars where humans have selected for a trait that appeals to us, not our wildlife. Check out our previous blog articles about natives and creating habitat. We can all do this; the size of the planting does not matter. And there are so many resources available to help you plan and find plants. See our recent blog article for resources: https://www.westtexasgardening.org/post/urban-gardens
Finally, do less harm or better still do no harm. Avoid pesticides, herbicides, or commercial application products. If you absolutely must use them, use them in a targeted way. Use your consumer power and make intentional choices at the store! Look for products grown on farms or grazed on ranches that use pollinator friendly practices. Turn off your house lights at night so that Monarch migration is not disrupted. If you absolutely must have a light, use a yellow bulb or a motion sensor.
To bring back the Monarch from the brink of extinction is possible with your help. Start by figuring out what you have and what you want, then prioritize your desires. Learn what you need to know. PLANT REAL NATIVES!!!!! And perhaps most importantly, spread the message and enjoy!
If you have questions, call the AgriLife office in Odessa at 498-4071 or in Midland at 686-4700. Additional information, and our blog for access to past articles, is available at westtexasgardening.org. Click on “Resources.”
