The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is proposing to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in the 48 contiguous states. A threatened listing under the ESA can modify or exempt certain species protections to balance conservation efforts with economic impacts. It allows flexibility to incentivize positive conservation actions. Details about prohibitions and exceptions are available on the FWS website.
Public comment period is open
We have an opportunity to help the FWS understand how production agriculture and monarch conservation efforts can coexist by offering insights and suggestions during the public comment period. Comments can be submitted by going to the proposed rule, https://www.regulations.gov/document/FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137-0001, and clicking on the blue “comment” box on the left side of the screen. The public comment period is open until March 12, 2025.
The FWS is looking for comments related to your personal experience with monarch populations and milkweed habitats. The FWS is particularly seeking comments in 10 areas listed in the proposed rule document. Your feedback should include how the proposed rule might affect your farming practices and suggest solutions to these issues. They are also looking for suggestions on how the rule could balance farming operations and habitat protections. Tips for submitting effective comments can be found here.
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Figure 1. Monarch butterfly on a Kansas sunflower. Photo by DeAnn Presley, K-State Research and Extension.
Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator
fmiller@ksu.edu
Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist
slancaster@ksu.edu