Mayor to read monarch butterfly proclamation at Jefferson Middle School

(COLUMBIA, MO) - The City of Columbia will continue its commitment to protecting pollinators with a special proclamation reading by the Mayor at Jefferson Middle School tomorrow at 9 a.m., alongside 6th-grade students.

During the event, the City will also renew its partnership with the National Wildlife Federation by signing the Mayors' Monarch Pledge once again, reaffirming Columbia's dedication to creating habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators.

The City's Office of Sustainability is proud to support the protection of one of North America's most important pollinators-the monarch butterfly. Columbia first signed the Mayors' Monarch Pledge in 2016, committing to restore native habitats, manage invasive species, and expand education efforts around monarch conservation.

The Mayors' Monarch Pledge represents a community-wide commitment to creating habitat for monarch butterflies and pollinators while empowering residents to take action at home and throughout the community.

Since signing the pledge, Columbia has made meaningful progress:

Restoring Habitat

• 15 acres of native prairie established in City parks, with support from the 3M Foundation
• 33 acres of native habitat planted along public roadsides

Innovative Programs

• The Roadside Pollinator Program transforms traditionally mowed areas - such as medians and roundabouts - into thriving native prairie landscapes

Education & Outreach

• School programs and community initiatives continue to raise awareness about pollinator protection
• The CoMo Wild Yards program helps residents incorporate native plants into their landscapes, creating certified pollinator-friendly habitats at home

From restoring habitat to engaging students and residents, the City of Columbia remains committed to addressing pollinator decline and supporting biodiversity.

City of Columbia Vision
Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

City of Columbia Mission
To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.