Earlier this fall, Urban Plains Park an Urban Woods and Prairie nature site in Fargo, North Dakota, came alive with the vibrant colors of monarch butterflies and a mosaic of plants. Urban Plains park is full of native blooms and grasses including Black-eyed Susan, Common Milkweed, Blazing Star, and Purple Coneflower and grasses such as Brome Grass, Big Blue Stem, Little Blue Stem, and Indian Grass, providing an array of colors and areas to explore. Species seen at the park include the Canada Goose and Ring-billed Gull, this park serves as a well-mainted site for birds, wildlife, and people to enjoy. Hosted in partnership with the Fargo Parks District, United Prairie Foundation, and North Dakota State University, the Monarch Butterfly Tagging event was a memorable day for our community. 

The event was organized to raise awareness about monarch butterfly conservation and to involve the community in a citizen science project. Monarch populations have faced significant declines due to habitat loss, making events like this crucial in understanding their migration patterns and more about them. The joyful participation of more than 250 community members we were able to tag 16 monarch butterflie! Once caught the Monarchs were successfully tagged by a certified staff member. Each Monarch receiving a small, harmless sticker on their wing with a unique identification code. These tags allow researchers to track the butterflies' migration routes if they get caught again at a new location. Attendees ventured off the main trail to find sheltered areas where the monarchs were more likely to be found, looking closely for the bright purple of the blazing star flower known to be a popular source of nectar for the species. Once attendees "spooked" the butterflies from their hiding spots, participants equipped with nets and enthusiasm, gently placed the net over the Monarch cinching the net closed to keep the monarch safefly in the net. Events like these serve as a great way for the community to play an active role in Monarch conservation.

While families waited for nets to and their turn to try and catch a Monarch, they could fill out a coloring sheet, check out the playground, learn more about native plant species, or my personal favorite, enjoy an ice-cream treat from the ice cream truck that joined our event! Adding a creative touch to the event, a "make-and-take" craft station was set up for attendees of all ages. Participants had the opportunity to create their own transparent mosaic butterfly craft. This artistic activity was a hit, allowing children and adults to showcase their creative flair. 

The partnership between the Fargo Parks District, United Prairie Foundation, and North Dakota State University ensured the event's success. Experts were on hand to explain the monarch's lifecycle, the challenges they face, and how citizens can help by planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly plants. The event proved to be a powerful reminder of the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.