Help for the Monarchs is at the Roadsides

I've today sent a request to the District of Coldstream to help us protect the Monarch butterflies.
There's a plant, unflatteringly called Milkweed, that makes up a group of plants that these beautiful butterflies need to complete their lifecycle.

Monarch Butterfly

The important plant grows wild below the east and west of 8123 Buchanan Road...but unfortunately the area is mowed by the District of Coldstream contractor to help motorists' visibility when travelling the road.
I believe these stands should be protected.

Visibility is most important near road intersections, not necessarily a straight stretch.

Here's the stand:

Looking west, below 8123 Buchanan Road

There's a symbiotic relationship, as Monarch butterflies need the milkweed's particular nectar to complete a part of their life cycle, including the laying of eggs.
This site is very very informative.  

So help is available.
But only if we don't mow the stands, which are approaching their bloom stage now.

At Highlands Golf, we have a milkweed variety called Asclepias growing near the little pond at the clubhouse.  These plants are a favourite of Monarchs as well, and the real benefit is that--while they do self-seed--they never become invasive.  In successive years, two or three more plants will pop up within a 20-foot area.

Here's a photo of Asclepias:

The District of Coldstream has submitted my request to Mike Pethick, their Public Works Foreman.

Hopefully Mike will see the benefit to advising their mowing contractors.
Thanks in advance, Mike, for caring.

Oh...and look at the gorgeous Swallowtail Butterfly on the petunias yesterday!

Not a Monarch, but a Swallowtail Butterfly, just as lovely!

With everyone's help, these beauties can grace our yards and provide hours of amazement for our grandchildren.

"Please protect all Milkweed plants," asks Kia.

Yes indeed.
It's worth it!