The Friends of Fredericksburg Nature Center will host a workshop, “Monarch Conservation Through Citizen Science,” on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Texas AgriLife Extension office, located at 38 Business Court.
The event, free and open to the public, aims to educate participants on conserving monarch butterflies, a species in decline due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use.
Monarchs, vital pollinators and symbols of transformation, are known for their extraordinary migration patterns but face mounting challenges that threaten their populations.
The workshop will provide attendees with an overview of the monarch life cycle, migration, and conservation challenges.
Participants will also learn how to engage in citizen science initiatives, such as larva monitoring, data collection, and habitat improvement.
Citizen science allows community members to collaborate in research efforts that contribute to meaningful conservation outcomes.
Certified Texas Master Naturalists Cathy Downs, Sarah Hilburn, Barbara Jansen, and Carla Stang will lead the session.
These experts will share insights into monarch tagging, monitoring, and research, offering practical tools attendees can use in their own communities.
“This workshop is an opportunity to make a tangible difference,” said a representative from the Friends of Fredericksburg Nature Center. “By working together, we can ensure that future generations will enjoy the beauty of monarch butterflies in our skies.”
Participants are encouraged to RSVP by emailing Gracie Waggener at gwaggener@flow-apps. com.
A $10 suggested donation will help cover workshop materials.
Attendees should bring a sack lunch for a 30-minute lunch break, while coffee, tea, water, and light refreshments will be provided.
The workshop is approved for four hours of advanced training for Texas Master Naturalists.
The Friends of Fredericksburg Nature Center, a nonprofit organization, promotes environmental education and conservation through workshops, community events, and educational programs.
For more information, visit fredericksburgnaturecenter. com or follow the organization on Facebook.
