In nature, the birds and bees seem to get all the attention. In Phoenix, a proclamation finally gives the monarch butterflies their place. As Phoenix is on the 3,000-mile migration route for eastern and western monarch butterflies, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued a proclamation declaring September “Planting for Monarchs Month”. The proclamation supports the conservation of Phoenix biodiversity and encourages the community to plant milkweed and other native nectar plants to create habitats for monarch butterflies. “By helping monarch butterflies, we can also make our community more environmentally friendly and sustainable,” the proclamation says. ALSO READ: Here’s Why So Many Caterpillars Wind Through Arizona In the past 25 years, the western population of monarch butterflies has declined by nearly 99% due to climate change, pesticide use, and habitat loss. Monarchs are major pollinators and can be seen in Phoenix from September to May before continuing their migration route. However, the monarch isn’t the only major pollinator in Phoenix who is attracted to milkweed and native nectar plants. “The things we do for monarchs benefit a wide variety of insects that need protection,” said Kim Pegram, program director for pollinator protection and research at Desert Botanical Garden. “When we promote planting for monarchs, we are promoting planting for pollinators.” The native biodiversity in the area has changed dramatically over time, which has caused Sonoran wildlife to evolve and adapt, says Tricia Balluff , Phoenix City Environmental Program Coordinator. “If we improve and increase the number of native plants of the Sonoran Desert in the area, we will not only have an impact on the monarch butterfly,” said Balluff. According to Balluff and Pegram, native plants also contribute to water protection. “If we choose native plants, they don’t need nearly as much water to grow as non-native plants,” Pegram said. Planting milkweed provides a single source of food for caterpillars and reduces water consumption outdoors. Most of the water used in courtyards across Phoenix is potable, so Balluff recommends using rainwater as a sustainable way to grow native plants and conserve water in the city. Looking to the future, the Phoenix Office of Environmental Programs is committed to continuing its community outreach work and spreading the word about the monarch population. “The September push and proclamation are part of an effort to ensure the community knows that the monarch butterfly population is at risk,” Balluff said. September marks the start of the fall planting season in Phoenix, which means it’s the perfect time to raise awareness and encourage citizens to plant. Depending on its size, “a milkweed plant can support at least one caterpillar that turns into a butterfly,” Pegram said. Since Phoenix is the fifth largest city in the country, it is important to create small spaces within the community for butterflies to fetch nectar or lay eggs. “From a plant on a balcony to a whole garden full of milkweed and native nectar plants, even the smallest of efforts can make a difference,” said Balluff.
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