Projects and initiatives
Monarch habitat along roads and trails
We are improving the habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators along county roads and trails. These intentional changes support pollinators while also maintaining safe and functional transportation corridors.
Monarch-friendly practices
Monarch-friendly practices that will be implemented on certain roadsides include:
- Using seed mixes that contain more native flowers and milkweed
- Adjusting mowing schedules to allow flowering plants to bloom
- Managing vegetation to remove invasive plants
These changes will only occur in areas where it is safe to do so. Road edges will continue to have an 8-foot mowed safety buffer to maintain visibility. Snow removal, road repairs, sightline maintenance, and other essential operations will remain unchanged.
Why monarchs need our help
The monarch butterfly has experienced steep population declines over the past few decades. In the winter of 2023–2024, monarchs that rely on habitat in Minnesota hit their second-lowest population ever. In late 2024, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed listing the monarch as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.
How rights-of-way can support monarchs
Hundreds of acres of rights-of-way in our county are within the monarch’s habitat range. Rights-of-way include roadways, highways, streets, trails and other areas used for travel and utilities. By changing how we manage our property, we can provide critical habitat for monarchs and other pollinators.
Monarch Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (Monarch CCAA)
The Monarch Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (Monarch CCAA) is the first nationwide agreement to promote voluntary conservation for the monarch butterfly. Hennepin County’s enrollment reflects our commitment to stewardship and collaboration.
By enrolling in the Monarch CCAA, the county voluntarily commits to improving monarch habitat. This means we won't face new federal permitting or costly compliance obligations if the monarch is federally listed as a threatened species.
What you can do at home
You can support and expand our work by making changes in your yard to support pollinators!
- Plant native milkweed and nectar-rich flowers
- Reduce pesticide use
- Leave some fall stems and leaves for overwintering habitat
- Create pockets of pollinator habitat in yards, boulevards, or gardens
Learn more about creating habitat for pollinators on the Natural resources protection page.