The monarch butterfly is known for its incredible migration story. In some cases, these butterflies travel 3,000 miles between Canada and Mexico.
This butterfly, iconic as it may be, is in trouble. Monarch butterfly populations are in significant decline, and we know very little about them. In the winter of 2017-2018, butterflies west of the Rockies declined by 99.4% from their population high point.
Unfortunately, basic information on the population trends of many insect species is sparse. That’s why we created our project—to answer key questions about plummeting pollinator species. Volunteers across Utah collect information about monarch butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs, milkweed (which is what monarchs eat), and bumble bees. These community scientists allow conservation specialists to analyze large amounts of information on the insects, which supports plans to conserve these species.
You and your friends and family can make a huge difference for pollinator conservation by simply watching our training, downloading an app, and recording sightings of bumble bees or monarchs. You can record them in your garden, on a walk, on a hike, or anywhere you see them! You can also choose to steward a site for deeper involvement over the summer. It's a simple way to have a big impact on local conservation.
Monarch Butterfly on Swamp Milkweed
Photo by Jim Hudgins/USFWS
What's more, the Utah Pollinator Pursuit portion of this project can be done 100% individually, making it a flexible, safe option for getting involved in conservation in 2026.
Volunteer Resources
Searching for pollinators among Tracy Aviary’s Nature Center at Pia Okwai flowers, including bee plant and sunflower. Photo by Sierra Hastings.
Training
Identification
iNaturalist
Download iNaturalist - for iOS - for Android
Monarch Habitat Assessment: How-To
Support Utah’s struggling pollinator populations by donating today.
2026 program sticker, designed by Frances Ngo.
Project Information
Field Season: May-September
Training Required? Yes — volunteers must watch the training video to participate.
Commitment Level: Flexible and varies, depending on interest.
Requirements: Field work, walking, and access to a smartphone or tablet. If you do not have access to these resources or have questions about accessibility, please contact us.
Participants must review & adhere to Sageland’s Volunteer Code of Ethics.
Communications: Email updates are sent once a month. Sign up to receive project emails.
Questions: Please contact us with any questions.
Project Updates
Magic of Pollination Web Presentation
Watch our presentation on the dazzling world of pollination in Utah below. Feel free to share with friends!
