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RESTON, Va. — The National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge has seen 15 percent more mayors and local heads of government committing to the creation or restoration of monarch habitat this year, totaling 353 pledges. This increase commemorates the 10-year anniversary of the program partnering with communities to support monarch butterflies across the country.

“What started as a one-time initiative has now turned into a nationwide, annual movement engaging millions of people and creating thousands of acres of habitat,” said Patrick Fitzgerald, senior director of community habitat. “We know that when our local leaders speak up, communities listen. For 10 years these leaders have been speaking up to create positive change for monarch butterflies and we are proud of all we’ve achieved together.”

“Monarch conservation provides a myriad of benefits to wildlife in general. Since the City of San Marcos is along a major migratory path for monarchs and other wildlife species, we can have a direct impact on their populations. It is important for everyone to do what they can and encourage others to make a difference,” said Mayor Jane Hughson of San Marcos, Texas.

Since 2015, signatories have created or restored more than 11,500 acres of habitat for monarchs and pollinators, engaging more than 13.6 million people, including 1.3 million youth. For additional data, annual impact reports can be found here.

This year’s signatories span 39 states and include communities in Ontario, Canada. The top five states with the most community pledges in 2025 include: 

• Illinois, 57 communities
• Texas, 38 communities 
• New York, 28 communities
• California, 23 communities
• New Jersey, 18 communities

Mayors and heads of local or Tribal government who have taken the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge must commit to implement at least three of the 30 possible action items within a year of taking the pledge. Mayors that complete eight or more actions receive special recognition as part of the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Leadership Circle, and those that complete 24 or more actions are recognized as a Monarch Champion.

2024 Monarch Champions include:

• San Antonio, Texas 
• San Marcos, Texas
• Minnetonka, Minn. 
• Carnegie, Pa. 
• Rochester, Mich.