Conserving butterflies in Kentucky

WARREN COUNTY, KY.- There are 52 butterfly species endangered here in the bluegrass state, many different organizations are doing their part to make sure that things don’t get worse than they are.

Kim Buckman, the Chairman and master gardener says, “The numbers this year through the monarch watch org were the worst they’ve ever been, so and we don’t know why, but that’s why we’re working so hard to get the numbers back up and to try to help them.”

Helping butterflies begins with understanding this insect. Finding spaces that specialize in this species is where you can start. Katie Cielinski the Director of philanthropy at Lost River Cave shares why it’s important to learn.

Katie says, “You get to take the knowledge with you and plant that at home so that you can be a part of the butterfly experience.”

With the decline of butterflies happening all over the United States, there are little steps that you can take right in your own backyard.

Kim also shares, “If you plant it, they will come, and if you provide a water source, they will come. And it doesn’t have to be hard. ”

Along with a water source planting herbs, mint and even carrots will attract and provide the nectar needed for butterflies to thrive.

“You’ve got crops, you’ve got purple cone flowers. And not only does it help the butterflies, but it also beautifies your yard.”

For more helpful tips on helping monarchs visit https://warrencountyagriculture.com/extension-master-gardeners-make-a-difference-with-a-certified-monarch-waystation/. To become inspired, and to see butterflies visit https://www.lostrivercave.org/butterfly/.