Iowa is an important stopping place for migrating Monarch Butterflies, particularly for laying eggs. However, their habitat is beginning to shrink across the state, putting them in danger.

With that in mind, Dallas County Conservation is hosting a Monarch Rescue event this Friday at the Kuehn Conservation Area. Forest Park Museum Curator Pete Malmberg says this event is one of the favorites for the County Naturalists. It involves a morning of going through the ditches around the conservation area looking for Monarchs to transplant into their milkweed garden. Milkweed is important to the butterflies, as it’s one of the primary places they lay eggs.

Registration is required for the program, though there is no cost. Malmberg is hopeful for a big turnout. “We would love to get more participants in this. We have been really, really concerned about the plight of the Monarchs. There’s just not enough habitat for them. Those milkweed plants are very, very important for them.”

Attendees are encouraged to wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. To register, call 515-465-3577.