Monarch Initiative of Tulsa

MONARCH

INITIATIVE OF TULSA

As Oklahoma finds itself along the annual migration path of monarch butterflies, the plants we cultivate hold the power to directly impact their population. That's why The Sustainability Alliance has joined forces with the Monarch Initiative of Tulsa, dedicated to reversing the decline of these vital pollinators and empowering Oklahomans to become their protectors.

These magnificent creatures play a crucial role in our local ecosystems, fostering the growth of plants that surround our communities and sustaining our precious food supply. Embark on an extraordinary journey to support monarch conservation by attending the Monarchs on The Mountain Festival each fall, where the captivating world of monarch butterflies and pollinators awaits.

The Mission

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The Festival

We strive to equip you with valuable information that promotes the creation of habitats, paving the way for an increase in the monarch population during their migration through the Tulsa area. Together, we have the power to protect these remarkable creatures and preserve their critical role in our precious ecosystem.

Ready to unleash your inner conservationist? Take action now! Explore the following links to embark on your journey towards creating a thriving Monarch garden. Let your love for nature blossom and witness the transformative impact you can make. Additionally, we invite you to delve into our rich assortment of resources. From inspiring guides to helpful links, our collection provides a wealth of knowledge to fuel your passion and empower your commitment to monarch preservation.

The Monarchs on The Mountain festival takes place each fall during the annual migration season of monarch butterflies as the pass through Oklahoma to head south for the winter. There will be food, fun, and educational opportunities of children and adults alike. Learn from guest speakers about monarch conservation efforts, buy your local milkweed plants, and get to know organizations supporting this cause by visiting information booths across the event.

FOLLOW MONARCHS ON THE MOUNTAIN ON FACEBOOK

How long is the program?

First Steps runs alongside the academic year, starting in September and concluding in May. This timeline helps communities plan and execute their sustainability projects effectively.
How do we sign up for the First Steps program?

To sign up, contact us at missy@thesustainabilityalliance.org to express your interest, and we will guide you through the onboarding process.
What are the program tracks available?

The program offers various tracks focusing on different aspects of sustainability, such as facilities, service, and capacity builder. Each track is designed to be flexible and can be customized to meet your community's specific needs.
What happens if we join mid-year?

Communities joining mid-year can still participate. We’ll help you integrate into the program at an appropriate point and catch up with the scheduled activities.
Who can join the First Steps program?

Any faith community, nonprofit or educational institution (or club within the institution) that is interested in sustainability and stewardship is welcome to join. We tailor the program to fit organizations of various sizes.
What type of support does the program provide?

Participants receive a program handbook, access to funding support, data collection tools, and regular support from the program coordinators. We also facilitate monthly check-ins and provide a platform for sharing experiences with other communities.
Can we get feedback on our progress throughout the program?

Yes, feedback is an integral part of the program. We provide regular assessments and support to help you monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your sustainability strategies.
What is the First Steps program?

First Steps is a guided initiative designed to help organizations implement sustainable practices. The program offers resources, support, and a framework for communities to engage in environmental stewardship.
How much does it cost to participate?

There is no fixed cost to participate in First Steps. However, we encourage communities that can afford to contribute a donation to help sustain the program and expand its reach.
Are there any specific commitments or requirements for joining?

The main commitment is to actively participate and engage with the program activities throughout the year. We encourage consistent involvement to maximize the benefits for your community.
WHY MILKWEED PLANTS?

Monarch butterflies lay eggs only on milkweed plants; their caterpillars/larvae feed only on milkweed plants.
WHERE CAN I GET MILKWEED PLANTS AND SEEDS?

You may find plants at monarchwatch.org, at nurseries, farmer’s markets, and spring gardening events, and on eBay, Amazon.com, and other internet sites. For seeds, shop monarchwatch.org, elsewhere online, or check with the Tulsa City-County Library Seed Exchange and Oxley Nature Center. Verify that plants and seeds are 100% pesticide free (no pesticides, including organic pesticides, are butterfly friendly.)
SHOULD I SOW SEEDS OR PLANT MILKWEED PLANTS?

Plants generally have a higher success rate than seeds. Larger areas may require seeding.
SHOULD I PLANT PLANTS NATIVE OR NOT NATIVE TO OKLAHOMA?

If sowing into a natural area, native plants should be used. In the home garden, both native and nonnative plants are suitable.
HOW MANY MILKWEED PLANTS SHOULD I PLANT?

One or more; there is no upper limit. If planting more than one, include multiple species. A Certified Monarch Waystation must have at least three species.
SHOULD I PLANT ANNUALS OR PERENNIALS?

Both are OK.
WHAT IS A CERTIFIED MONARCH WAYSTATION?

Details are under Monarch Waystation Program at monarchwatch.org. Certification shows that you are contributing to Monarch conservation. Upon certification, your site will be included in the International Monarch Waystation Registry, an online listing of Monarch Waystations, and you will be awarded a certificate bearing your name and your site’s unique Monarch Waystation ID number. You can purchase a waterproof sign to display on your site.
WHAT CAN I DO TO INCREASE THE MONARCH POPULATION?

Plant nectar and milkweed plants, provide water, and create a Monarch Garden, Habitat or Waystation.
HOW AND WHEN CAN I HARVEST MILKWEED SEEDS?

Seeds can be harvested when pods begin to pop open. If harvested too soon, the seeds will not be viable
WHAT IS AN ANNUAL?

A plant that dies each year. Many shed seeds which emerge the next year
WHEN SHOULD I SOW MILKWEED PLANT SEEDS?

Sow outside in fall or spring, or start seeds inside in mid-February for planting mid-March or April. Instructions are at monarchwatch.org/milkweed/prop.htm.
WHEN DO MONARCHS ARRIVE IN THE TULSA AREA AND LEAVE?

Northern migration from Mexico usually starts in March. They arrive from late March to mid-June; each year is different. The final generations of Monarchs are migratory and fly back to Mexico in September and October.
WHEN SHOULD I PLANT?

Plants are available usually by April. Perennials can be planted as late as October.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HARVESTING

Visit monarchwatch.org/bring-back-the-monarchs/milkweed/harvesting-milkweed.
WHAT IS A PERENNIAL?

A plant that lives two years or longer
WHAT IS NECTAR?

Sugar-rich liquid produced in flowers and elsewhere in a plant.
WHERE SHOULD I SOW OR PLANT?

In an area that receives at least 6 hours of sun a day. Well-drained, light soils are better than those with clay. You may add peat, aged compost, or rotted leaves. Herbicides are not butterfly friendly.
SEEDS MAY BE DONATED TO:

tulsalibrary.org/tags/tccl-seed-library

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