Partnering to conserve the monarch butterfly migration
Meet Our Staff
Teresa Franco
Field Technician, Monarch Butterfly Habitat Monitoring
Hi, I’m Teresa, a conservationist, butterfly enthusiast, and currently a graduate student with a deep passion for protecting wildlife and the habitats they depend on. My journey in environmental science began at California State University, Sacramento, where I earned my B.A. in Environmental Studies. That foundation sparked a commitment to understanding the relationships between species, ecosystems, and human impact. Today, I’m pursuing my Master’s degree in Wildlife Management at Oregon State University. My graduate studies allow me to explore wildlife conservation from a broader perspective, integrating ecological research, land management practices, and collaborative policy approaches. I’m especially passionate about working with imperiled species and using science to support real-world recovery efforts.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service. These experiences have given me firsthand insight into the challenges and successes of federal conservation work. I’ve been fortunate to survey rare butterfly species like the Mardon Skipper and Lance’s Metalmark Butterfly projects that have strengthened my dedication to Lepidoptera conservation and emphasized the importance of habitat preservation and long-term monitoring.
Butterflies have always held a special place in my heart. Their vulnerability, resilience, and ecological role inspire me daily. I view them not only as pollinators but as storytellers of our changing environment. That’s why I’m thrilled to join the Monarch Joint Venture, a team of professionals committed to protecting monarchs and promoting collaborative, science-driven conservation across North America.
When I’m not in the field or in class, I enjoy connecting with the natural world in other ways. I play the Kalimba, watercolor paint, birdwatching, and immerse myself in horror literature and films. These hobbies help me balance the intensity of environmental work and fuel my creativity and curiosity.
Whether I’m studying butterflies, engaging with community science, or hiking through remote field sites, my goal is always the same: to protect what matters and to to help others see the value in even the smallest creatures.
