Media Contact:
Wendy Caldwell
Executive Director, Monarch Joint Venture
wcaldwell@monarchjointventure.org
St. Paul, MN- Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has announced a proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), accompanied by a 4(d) rule and critical habitat designation. This proposed rule does not immediately list the monarch under the ESA but marks a significant step in the decision-making process for its protection.
The proposed "threatened" status would provide protections to monarchs and their critical habitats, while the 4(d) rule is designed to encourage conservation efforts with flexibility and exemption for certain practices and land uses.
“The Monarch Joint Venture stands ready to respond to this urgent call to action. With a proven track record of collaboration, innovation, and dedication, we are committed to advancing conservation efforts and ensuring the long-term survival of this iconic species. Together with our partners and supporters, we are prepared to lead the charge in protecting and restoring the monarch butterfly population," reflects MJV Executive Director Wendy Caldwell.
Background on the Proposed Rule
The journey to this milestone began in 2014, when a petition to list the monarch butterfly under the ESA prompted the USFWS to issue a 90-day finding, determining that further review was warranted. Between 2014 and 2020, the agency gathered and analyzed scientific data, expert opinions, and comprehensive information about planned and ongoing monarch conservation activities.
In December 2020, after completing its assessment, the USFWS determined that listing the monarch as endangered or threatened was “warranted but precluded” due to higher-priority species. Monarchs were subsequently added to the ESA candidate list. The most recent status assessment found the monarch butterfly is not in immediate danger of extinction but is likely to be in danger of extinction in the foreseeable future. Today’s proposed rule reflects the USFWS's continued evaluation of the species and signals the urgency of increasing conservation efforts and reducing threats across the monarch range.
Why This Proposed Rule Matters
The eastern and western monarch populations have significantly declined from historic population sizes, facing many threats such as habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. Conservation stakeholders from across public and private sectors have come together through the Monarch Joint Venture to employ collaborative and innovative solutions for monarch conservation.
"Monarch butterflies are not only a symbol of resilience but also a force that brings people together to protect our natural world,” comments Monarch Joint Venture Executive Director Wendy Caldwell. “As their populations continue to decline, proactive conservation is essential to secure their future. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other partners to ensure monarchs thrive for generations, inspiring communities and sustaining the ecosystems we all depend on."
What’s Next?
The proposed rule will soon be available in the Reading Room for public inspection and will be posted in the Federal Register, opening a 90-day public comment period. This public comment period is used to gather feedback on the proposed rule, allowing individuals, organizations, and any interested stakeholders to provide input and ensure that diverse perspectives are considered before any decisions are finalized. The Monarch Joint Venture will share these resources as they become available.
What You Can Do Now
While the proposed rule is under review, everyone can take action to support monarch conservation. Plant and protect habitat with milkweed and a variety of wildflowers, share knowledge and resources with others to help them get involved, reduce activities that may cause harm to pollinators, and get involved with and support conservation organizations. To learn more about how you can get involved, visithttps://monarchjointventure.org/get-involved