Each year, billions of monarch butterflies migrate thousands of miles from North America to Mexico to avoid the cold winters. However, over the last two decades, the number of these butterflies has started plummeting as pesticide, development, and climate change went on the rise. To help combat declining populations, Kate Budde, an Extension Horticulture Program Coordinator says events such as the Monarch Migration Festival help raise awareness and support conservation efforts.
“It is a celebration of the incredible journey of the monarch butterflies as they migrate south for the winter. The festival will feature educational exhibits, self-guided nature walks, some live music, some food vendors, craft vendors, and activities for all ages,” says Budde. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for family and nature enthusiasts to learn more about these amazing creatures and how we can help protect them.”
The Monarch Migration Festival will take place on Saturday, September 7th from 10 am to 3 pm at the Lakeside Nature Center.
