Learn about monarch butterflies at MDC's Shoal Creek Center in September

JOPLIN, Mo. - September is a great month to learn about monarch butterflies in Missouri because this is when these fascinating and beneficial insects are migrating through the Show-Me State on their way to their wintering grounds in central Mexico.

People can learn more about monarch butterflies and how humans can help them through several events being put on by staff at the Missouri Department of Conservation's (MDC) Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center in Joplin in September.

The Shoal Creek Center's monarch fun will feature two virtual MDC programs. On September 5, people can learn about these interesting butterflies at "Insects: Magnificent Monarchs." This online program will be from 10:30 a.m.-noon. People can register for this program at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/202700

The Shoal Creek Center's second virtual monarch program in September is also titled "Insects: Magnificent Monarchs." This online program will be Sept. 19 from 2-3:30 p.m. People can register for this program at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/202702

The importance of having monarch butterflies around is about much more than seeing pretty butterflies in flower gardens. Studies have shown that the financial benefits provided to U.S. citizens by the pollination activities of butterflies and other insects can be measured in the billions of dollars.

Just as impressive, but much more mysterious, is the annual autumn migration monarchs make to central Mexico. No monarch makes the trip more than once (the butterflies live about a year). During each of these virtual programs, MDC Naturalist Jessie Ballard will discuss theories about the annual monarch migration and will also provide tips on plants that will provide good habitat for these colorful butterflies during the time they're in Missouri. Though these programs are free, registration is required. To participate, use the link above. Registrants must provide an e-mail, so a program link can be sent to them. These programs will include a chat-based question-and-answer period where participants can interact with the presenters.

The butterfly fun continues Sept. 21 with the Shoal Creek Center's "Monarch Festival." No registration is required for this event, which is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At this event, families will have a chance to get up-close views of monarch caterpillars and adult monarch butterflies. They can also participate in monarch-themed crafts and activities and learn about conservation efforts taking place to preserve this beautiful and beneficial butterfly. People can learn more about this event at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/202703

On the same day (Sept. 21), MDC's Shoal Creek Center will hold a fall native plant sale from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. People can drop by any time during this event to purchase native plants for their landscaping needs. Vendors will offer plants and planting advice about native plants and their benefits. People can learn more about the native plant sale at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/202704

MDC's Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center is located at 201 W. Riviera Drive. People can stay informed about upcoming programs at the Shoal Creek Center and other nearby MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the Shoal Creek Center can call 417-629-3434.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding in-person and virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.