Why are our "fluttering friends" so
important:
Monarch butterflies are not only
beautiful, they are key pollinators in our ecosystems. By
helping pollinate, monarchs support plants in bearing fruit and are a vital part of
the
food chain for people and animals alike. Monarchs are also considered an indicator species, meaning they are very sensitive to climate changes and the
presence
of chemicals in the environment. It's a wonderful sign when butterflies are
thriving.
The danger:
Monarch populations are on the decline due to a number of factors. Deforestation is causing
habitat loss, while more extreme weather also poses a threat to this delicate creature.
Because
they are so sensitive to the climate, severe storms, harsh winters,drought, excessive rain and
temperature drops can kill many monarch butterflies.
Monarchs are also losing access
to milkweed, a plant they
depend on. Many people
believe milkweed is a true weed and remove it from their lawns and
gardens,
when in actuality it is a plant that sustains butterflies. Like the monarch butterfly,
milkweed
faces its own share of threats: herbicides, drought, and urbanization to name a few.
Due to these factors there are concerns that the population of this species is declining at a fast rate and that may be on the endangered species list
soon.
Why milkweed:
It's the monarch's favorite flower! While monarchs pollinate many different types of flowers,
the milkweed flower is their
favorite. They rely on the nectar from the plant to drink, and milkweed is also one
of
the few places where these butterflies will lay their eggs.
How to help:
You can help save monarch butterflies by helping plant milkweed! Monarchs depend on the
milkweed flower for not only nectar but to lay eggs and grow their population. When you
choose
to help, we will work with regional experts to plant hundreds of pounds of milkweed native
seeds, both annual and perennial, in areas that will assist in the survival of the species.
Your
support also helps fund labor, supplies and tools to ensure the seeds are being planted
properly. As a bonus, these flowers will help other natural
wildlife like birds, bees and other types of butterflies!
Join us in our effort to support and save monarch
butterflies!
Other important information:
- You will not receive a shipment from this purchase. We will facilitate the donation
directly with qualifying organizations your behalf.
- You will be charged all required taxes for your location. Save your receipt and
consult
your tax professional to determine if you're able to claim this purchase as a
tax-deductible
donation expense.
-
GreaterGood has ultimate authority and discretion with regard to the distribution of
Benefit Buy contributions based upon what the receiving organization needs the most. We
will
always contribute products of equal or greater value. Contributions may be distributed as
cash or may be used to help other charity partners depending on the greatest
need.
- GreaterGood is proud to help provide this opportunity to plant flowers in areas that
are
in need. We are 20 Years Strong, and we couldn't have done it without your support--thank
you!