Forests for Monarchs

In 2023, 1.3 million native tree seedlings were purchased from Forests for Monarchs Mexican nursery partner and planted with local people and organizations that also received technical assistance. These new trees planted for forest restoration and monarch butterfly habitat conservation also provide erosion control, watershed restoration, and a source of wood. Sixty-seven percent of the trees were planted around the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and the remaining was planted in the area around Lake Patzcuaro and Zirahuen, Michoacan, Mexico. These new trees helped to reforest over 1,193 ha (2,889 acres) this year. Since 1997 over 12.9 million trees have been planted by Forests for Monarchs, and its Mexican partner program, with the support of individuals, foundations, and nonprofit partners. Every year, after the planting season, the Mexican partners verify that the tree seedlings were planted by visiting reforestation sites. Data collection is performed during the visit. Data mainly includes GPS coordinates, photographs, species planted, and initial seedling survival rates