Monarch Joint Venture Blog
Reflecting on a Season as a Drone Technician: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Growth, and Building Memories
2023 was the MJV’s first year deploying drone technicians to survey common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). Our talented drone technicians, Josiah Velner and Luis Osorio, excelled through all the beta-testing and unforeseen challenges. In this blog post, Luis and Josiah share a glimpse into their first field season through their experiences as Conservation Corp of Minnesota and Iowa members with the MJV. Read More
Mapping Milkweed for Monarchs: Using Innovative Technology to Support Biodiversity Conservation
The POLLi software platform equips conservation organizations with a novel tool to streamline data collection using drones, AI, and cloud computing. Read More
What is Milkweed Yellows Phytoplasma?
Those who support monarchs and pollinators by fostering monarch habitat know it is sometimes challenging. Several diseases and pests can affect milkweed, leaving habitat managers wondering what to do. Some symptoms of diseased or unhealthy milkweed plants include unusual spots on the leaves, misshapen or asymmetrical leaves or pods, or plants that appear wilted or weakened. Recent inquiries about yellowing or odd-looking milkweeds inspired us to dig into plant diseases, specifically milkweed yellows phytoplasma. Read More
Monarch Joint Venture and tentree Join Forces for the 2023 Spring Free Milkweed Plug Giveaway
In January 2023, the Monarch Joint Venture (MJV) partnered with tentree to launch an exciting initiative aimed at conserving the monarch butterfly migration. The overwhelming response from agricultural producers and conservation enthusiasts demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting monarch habitats and fostering biodiversity. Read More
Creating Pollinator Habitat: A Guide from the Monarch Joint Venture
Fall is a great time to install native plants and milkweeds for monarchs and pollinators. Let us help you get started! Read More