Monarch conservation requires an all-hands-on-deck approach with involvement on all levels from individuals to large corporations and governmental agencies. The members of MJV’s newest partner, Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), parallel that approach. With members in local government units, state agencies, the University of Minnesota, and citizens, the BWSR strives to protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources targeting local organizations and private landowners.
“Membership in the Monarch Joint Venture will provide the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of conservation partners and increase our ability to support Monarch Butterflies as part of our wetland, conservation easement, and water quality programs” says Dan Shaw, BWSR Senior Ecologist/Vegetation Specialist.
BWSR’s Pollinator Initiative focuses on incorporating pollinator habitat in all of its programs to support restoration efforts. Part of their work involves establishing milkweeds on pollinator plots within conservation easement areas as well as adding value to conservation plantings.
“BWSR’s increasing engagement in pollinator and monarch conservation showcases the multiple benefits of pollinator habitat. With pollinator habitat comes cleaner water and healthier ecosystems. We’re happy to be bringing BWSR on board to the MJV Partnership,” says Wendy Caldwell, Monarch Joint Venture Coordinator.
You can learn more about the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources and their programs on their website.
The Monarch Joint Venture is a national partnership of federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic programs working together to conserve the monarch butterfly migration. The content in this article does not necessarily reflect the positions of all Monarch Joint Venture partners. Header photo provided by Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR).