The monarch butterfly is facing an uncertain future: Populations have been slowly declining for years, shrinking by as much as 90% due to human development.

Last winter’s count of overwintering monarch butterflies was the second-lowest since volunteers and scientists started counting the picturesque insects, according to the Xerxes Society . The lowest count ever observed was in 2020, with fewer than 2,000 butterflies recorded.

But there’s a way to help: You can plant more milkweed, the only food monarch caterpillars can eat. The Santa Monica Mountains Fund is partnering with the L.A. Parks Foundation for a months-long milkweed giveaway in the San Fernando Valley to get you started.

About the giveaway

Both organizations have an extensive history with growing milkweed. The L.A. Park

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