A nationwide service-learning project for youth groups
Plant A Monarch Waystation
Lead your youth in planting a monarch waystation on your church grounds.
A monarch waystation is a place that has the key resources to preserve the monarch species, such as milkweed, nectar plants, shelter, and sustainable management practices. The plants do not all have to be in the same garden area. If your church has a flower garden, it may meet some of the requirements already! Together we can make a huge impact on the survival of the monarch Butterfly. See the link below to visit MonarchWatch.org and learn what to plant and how to certify your church grounds as a waystation.
Apply for free milkweed at the Monarch Watch Milkweed Market
If your organization qualifies as a school or non-profit, you can apply for a flat of free milkweed plugs. These plants are valued between $74-$93.50! Shipping is included as well as guidance on how to create a new habitat or enhance an existing garden. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has provided funds for this project. Applications will be reviewed in the order that they are received. Plants will be delivered in the spring.
See which nectar plants are recommended for monarchs in your area.
Visit the Xerces Society website, go to the Monarch Nectar Plants page and click on your region on the interactive map. Plant these nectar plants in your garden to feed adult monarch butterflies as well as many other important pollinators.
Find funding for your project
The funding for our pilot program at Christ the King Lutheran Church came from a $250 grant from Thrivent Financial. These grants are available to Thrivent members. Find out more at the link below.
Wild Ones offers small grants for funding native plant gardens or habitats for hands-on learning. Applications for the Wild Ones Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education are accepted each year from July to October. Find out more at the link below.
Seek partners
You may find your local nursery willing to discount or donate some plants on your wish list. It is very important that the plants have not been treated with insecticides. Native species are best in Monarch waystations.
