The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board is now offering grants for small-acreage landowners looking to enhance habitat for Monarch butterflies through the planting of native milkweed species. Grants for up to $375 per acre are available for landowners on properties of one to thirty acres. Grants will cover seed costs, as well as planting and maintenance related to the plantings.
This is a fantastic opportunity for landowners on smaller tracts of land to contribute to the health of our environment and native wildlife. Find more details on the TSSWCB website.
According to the TSSWCB: “It is estimated that over the past 20 years the Monarch population has declined from 1 billion to less than 60 million due to a number of factors. One of the most prominent factors that has contributed to this steep population decline is the loss of habitat and food sources.
The iconic orange and black insects are dependent on nectar producing vegetation to produce energy for their annual migration from Mexico to Canada. The Monarch Caterpillar on the other hand, depends on milkweed as a critical food source.”
Comments 7
Re: milkweed
Where can i get seeds/plants for my house?
Author
Hi Stuart,
Check out the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s list of suppliers. You should be able to find some milkweed at many of these places! http://www.wildflower.org/suppliers/
Could you give me information on growing milkweed for the Monarch Butterflies?
I have 10 acres on Nutty Brown Rd. Austin
Author
Van Redin,
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center has some good information on the species of milkweed that grow in the area and where you may be able to find some plants. http://www.wildflower.org/expert/show.php?id=9093
As new landowners, we are definitely interested in this project!
I found some on Amazon. They are now in the fridge waiting to be planted!
Is this grant still active. I have 16 acres and want to plant milkweed.