Monarchs and Milkweed: Why Farms Matter

The North American Monarch butterfly population has declined by over 90 percent in less than 20 years. This drastic loss has coincided with the rapid expansion of genetically engineered (GE) corn and soybeans. The weed killer glyphosate, used in conjunction with GE crops, has wiped out large areas of milkweed plants — the sole source of food for Monarch butterfly larvae. More GE crops mean more herbicides, less milkweed and fewer Monarchs. Is it too late to save Monarch butterflies from further decline? Hear from scientists and conservationists about the crucial role farmers must play in protecting this dwindling species and their habitats.