The efficacy of utilizing developed space to restore and maintain monarch butterfly habitat: A model for conservation

Abstract

SALIBA, MATTHEW JORDAN. The Efficacy of Utilizing Developed Space to Restore and Maintain Monarch Butterfly Habitat. A Model for Conservation. (Under the direction of Dr. Gary Blank). Danaus plexippus, the monarch butterfly, represents a conservation challenge due to its species- specific habitat requirements, migratory patterns, and food source. These vulnerabilities have exacerbated the population’s decline. As with any conservation problem, land use practices have an important role to play in species management and recovery. Many non-governmental organizations are instrumental in this effort by preserving habitat or making use of existing green space to better serve ecological needs. Understanding how well these initiatives are working is vital to the conservation of the species and the implementation of any project aimed at stabilizing or improving their populations. Data collection is also invaluable to the overall picture of monarch population health and vitality. The “Monarchs in the Rough” golf course program initiated by Audubon International and administered through local partners is evaluated for efficacy along with a similar program associated with the chemical company BASF. Three participating local golf courses in the Triangle area were evaluated for milkweed planting efforts and monarch butterfly use. Special training and data collection support were provided by Monarch Joint Venture which helps citizen scientists collect data at monarch conservation sites and compiles that data as part of their Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program.