The Monarch Joint Venture (MJV) is pleased to announce an exciting pollinator habitat project at Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area. Scheduled for seeding during the dormant season of 2025–2026, this initiative promises to make a significant positive contribution to the environment. In collaboration with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR) and with the generous support of a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, this initiative aims to create 25 acres of prairie pollinator habitat to benefit bees, butterflies, and birds—species vital to sustaining agriculture and conserving biodiversity.
“Duke Energy has a long history of supporting the communities we serve. We’re proud to support the Monarch Joint Venture and the work they’re doing to restore pollinators at Deer Creek Fish and Wildlife Area,” said Kim Vogelgesang, Duke Energy Foundation Manager.
The project will center on restoring native wildflower species at Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area, providing an abundant source of nectar and shelter for pollinators. The Indiana DNR will manage and maintain the habitat project, while the Monarch Joint Venture will contribute by offering technical guidance, supplying the seed mix, and providing marketing and communication support.
Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat and play a key role in the health of ecosystems. However, these critical species face numerous threats. This past December, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced a proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). To restore monarch and other pollinator populations to sustainable levels, MJV works to improve and protect their habitats. On a larger scale, these habitats also benefit a variety of other species, contribute to overall biodiversity, capture carbon, and positively impact water quality.
“Kevin and his team at Deer Creek FWA have been very motivated and proactive in their extensive habitat work. This project is just one of many in their ongoing habitat conversion plans, and we are fortunate to be able to have a part in creating truly high-quality pollinator habitat on public lands in Indiana,” said Jake Koenig, MJV Midwest Habitat Coordinator. “MJV is excited to continue working with this dedicated team to capitalize on these concerted efforts across Indiana.”
A Partnership Rooted in Conservation
This initiative is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration. The IN DNR, MJV, and the Duke Energy Foundation have brought their expertise, resources, and shared commitment to conservation to make this vision a reality. Together, we are creating a space that will not only benefit pollinators but also contribute to the natural beauty and biodiversity of Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area.
“Here at Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area, we are excited to work with partners like Monarch Joint Venture and the Duke Energy Foundation to put this vital habitat on the ground,” said Kevin Shettle, IN DNR Property Manager at Deer Creek FWA. “To me, projects like this showcase the value and impact of everyone working towards a common goal. Working together, we can create these critically important areas for wildlife as well as something the public can come out and enjoy for themselves.”
Deer Creek Fish & Wildlife Area is a 2,175-acre property located south of Greencastle in southern Putnam County, Indiana. Managed and owned by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Fish & Wildlife. Current management efforts are focused on developing high-quality habitats, with a particular emphasis on pollinators, wildflowers, and bobwhite quail, along with other species of greatest conservation concern.
Learn more about the partners participating in this project via their website links below:
Photo Credit: Robert Seilheimer, Monarch Joint Venture