As one of the most rapidly developing counties in the state, preserving wildlife habitat and resources is one of Placer RCD’s highest priorities. Specifically, the western monarch butterfly population has declined more than 99% in the last four decades due to a combination of stressors including the degradation of overwintering groves, pesticide use, loss of breeding and migratory habitat, climate change, and diseases. Placer County falls within both the early breeding and summer breeding zones for the recovering western monarch. In collaboration with the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Placer RCD is dedicated to planting and protecting native milkweed and nectar plants to improve habitat and food sources in an increasingly fragmented region.

In 2020, Placer RCD planted a 500-foot hedgerow at Hillview Farms in Lincoln using habitat kits provided by the Xerces Society. In 2021, we will expand our planting assistance to two locations including Stone’s Throw Farm and Doyle Ranch Park in Colfax and Roseville, respectively. A total of 800 feet of native milkweed and nectar will be planted at Stone’s Throw Farm, a local and dedicated organic producer. In partnership with the Placer County Parks Division, a 1,200 foot pollinator hedgerow will be implemented at Doyle Ranch Park to supplement existing habitat and provide resources in the monarch’s first stopover zone.

To learn more about our habitat conservation work, or for habitat technical assistance, contact: