Monarchs on the Mountain: A Celebration at Chandler Park

For the second year, Monarchs on the Mountain returns to Tulsa County Parks Chandler Park, offering a beautiful setting for one of nature’s most spectacular migrations. Every fall, as monarch butterflies journey thousands of miles across North America, Chandler Park becomes a hub of excitement and learning, where the community comes together to celebrate these incredible pollinators and learn about the conservation efforts that can help ensure their survival.

Why Monarchs Matter

Monarch butterflies are not only visually stunning but also vital contributors to pollination and biodiversity. Each year, they embark on an epic migration from Canada to Mexico, a journey that faces increasing threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Monarchs on the Mountain highlights the importance of protecting these butterflies and their migration routes, encouraging local involvement in conservation efforts.

As one of nature’s most iconic migrators, monarch butterflies serve as ambassadors for broader ecological health. By protecting their habitats—rich with native plants like milkweed and nectar sources—communities support not only monarchs but a wide range of other pollinators and wildlife.

What’s Happening at Monarchs on the Mountain?

Held at the scenic Chandler Park, this year’s Monarchs on the Mountain promises an immersive and educational experience for all ages. Some of the exciting activities you can look forward to include:

– Monarch Biology Workshops:

Experts will guide participants through the fascinating lifecycle of monarch butterflies, discussing their biology, migration, and the environmental challenges they face.

– Butterfly Tagging Demonstrations: Tagging monarchs is a vital part of research and conservation efforts. Join our team to learn about this process and witness the tagging of butterflies, which helps track their migratory paths.

– Native Pollinator Gardens: Explore the pollinator-friendly gardens at Chandler Park, where you can learn about the native plants that attract monarchs and how to create your own butterfly haven.

– Family Activities: From butterfly-themed crafts to face painting and nature hikes, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

– Conservation Talks: Local environmental advocates will share their knowledge and strategies for protecting monarch habitats in urban areas, encouraging everyone to take small, impactful actions.

How You Can Help

Monarchs on the Mountain isn’t just a one-day event; it’s a movement focused on ongoing monarch and pollinator conservation. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting to learn about monarchs, there are several ways you can contribute:

– Plant Native Milkweed: Monarchs rely on milkweed to lay their eggs, and it’s essential for their survival. Planting native species of milkweed in your garden helps support the monarch population.

– Reduce Pesticide Use: Pesticides are harmful to monarchs and other pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods to create a safer environment for these creatures.

– Spread Awareness: Use your voice! Share information about the monarch’s plight with friends, family, and on social media to help raise awareness and inspire action.

Growing Our Movement

This year, our goal is to continue building the Monarchs on the Mountain community. We’re working to grow our social media presence and reach 1,000 followers before the event. By spreading the word and encouraging others to join, we can create a ripple effect of awareness and support for monarch conservation.

The monarch migration is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and our role in preserving it. Join us at Chandler Park for Monarchs on the Mountain and become part of a growing movement dedicated to ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sight of these beautiful butterflies soaring through the sky.

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Be sure to follow Monarchs on the Mountain on social media for event updates, pollinator garden tips, and ways to get involved in monarch conservation. We can’t wait to see you at Chandler Park for another inspiring year!

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Visit the Event Site For Full Details

Here you can learn about

Mobile Migration 2024

Monarch Media Monday

Planting Events

Vendors on Site

Speakers

Maps & Parking

Event Site

9AM – Noon

• Come prepared to work
• Crews will be very spread out

What to bring / wear:

Tools (optional)

***** Should you bring personal tools please clearly label them so you can make it home with what you brought.

*******note – we do not expect any one volunteer to provide everything on this list, pick one or two things

• Gloves

• Lopper/Pruner (with your name on them)
• Hand saw (non-power like a bow saw or folding saw) and small Axe/Hatchet

Project list:

While we typically refrain from commenting on legislation, there’s a bill on the table that demands our attention. If passed, it could irreparably harm our cherished recreational wild spaces. Please take a moment to read the attached letter detailing our concerns and consider adding your voice to the cause.

– TUWC

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma (CCO) is currently embroiled in a pivotal fight over House Bill 4118 (HB4118), known as the Right to Farm bill.

This legislation, if passed, could have far-reaching implications for the state’s natural resources and wildlife. Here’s a breakdown of what’s at stake and how various stakeholders are responding:

What is HB4118?

HB4118 aims to grant extensive rights to poultry farms, particularly in regard to waste disposal. Proponents argue that the bill will protect the poultry industry, a major economic driver in Oklahoma. However, opponents fear that the bill will lead to environmental degradation, especially concerning water quality.Opposition from CCO and Allies CCO, alongside municipalities and tourism organizations, is leading the charge against HB4118. They argue that the bill does not comply with EPA requirements and could harm Oklahoma’s natural assets. Tribal nations, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations, have also voiced opposition, highlighting the potential environmental and cultural impact of the bill.

Legislative Maneuvering

Despite significant opposition, HB4118 has garnered support from influential groups like the Farm Bureau and the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association. This has created a challenging political landscape, with urban and rural senators divided on the issue.Current Status and Future ProspectsAs of the latest update, the committee meeting for HB4118 has been delayed until April 1st. While there is optimism that there are enough votes to defeat the bill, unforeseen circumstances, such as the inability of a key legislator to attend a vote, could impact the outcome.

Looking Ahead

The battle over HB4118 is emblematic of the broader struggle between economic interests and environmental conservation. It underscores the importance of public engagement and advocacy in shaping legislation that affects our natural resources. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue.

Impact on Northeast Oklahoma’s Outdoor Recreation

Northeast Oklahoma has emerged as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, rafting, trail running, and mountain biking. The region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes have attracted visitors from across the state and beyond.

However, the passage of House Bill 4118 (HB4118) could pose a significant threat to these tourism destinations.

The bill’s provisions regarding poultry waste disposal could lead to environmental contamination, impacting the waterways and natural habitats that make Northeast Oklahoma a prime outdoor recreation area.Environmental ConcernsChicken waste, if not properly managed, can introduce harmful pollutants into the environment, including nitrogen and phosphorus. These pollutants can degrade water quality, harm aquatic life, and disrupt the delicate ecosystems that support the region’s biodiversity.

Economic Implications

The adverse effects of HB4118 on Northeast Oklahoma’s outdoor recreation areas could have serious economic consequences. Tourism is a major driver of the region’s economy, supporting local businesses and creating jobs. Any degradation of the area’s natural assets could deter visitors and undermine the tourism industry’s growth.

Community Response

In response to the potential threat posed by HB4118, local communities and advocacy groups have mobilized to oppose the bill. They argue that protecting the region’s natural resources is essential for maintaining Northeast Oklahoma’s appeal as a recreational destination.

Call to Action

As the debate over HB4118 continues, it is crucial for stakeholders to voice their concerns and advocate for sustainable environmental policies. Preserving Northeast Oklahoma’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities requires a concerted effort to protect the region’s environment for future generations.

Letter from CCO Members

9AM – Noon

• Come prepared to work
• Crews will be very spread out

Meet at Bales Park to walk to Mooser Trails.

What to bring / wear:

Tools (optional)

***** Should you bring personal tools please clearly label them so you can make it home with what you brought.

*******note – we do not expect any one volunteer to provide everything on this list, pick one or two things

• Gloves

• Lopper/Pruner (with your name on them)
• Hand saw (non-power like a bow saw or folding saw) and small Axe/Hatchet
• Hoe (both traditional & rogue) / Shovel (spade & square)
• Pulaski / Mattock
• Mcleod
• Rake (leaf and garden rake)
• Wheelbarrow

Project list:

Not sure where Bales Park is?

9AM – Noon

• Come prepared to work
• Crews will be very spread out

What to bring / wear:

Tools (optional)

***** Should you bring personal tools please clearly label them so you can make it home with what you brought.

*******note – we do not expect any one volunteer to provide everything on this list, pick one or two things

• Gloves

• Lopper/Pruner (with your name on them)
• Hand saw (non-power like a bow saw or folding saw) and small Axe/Hatchet
• Hoe (both traditional & rogue) / Shovel (spade & square)
• Pulaski / Mattock
• Mcleod
• Rake (leaf and garden rake)
• Wheelbarrow

Project list:

• Depending on how many volunteers we have this is our list of projects in order of importance.
  
• Bluffs trash cleanup.
  
• AllUp section repair above berm past Blues Brothers exit.
  
• Bring wheelbarrow to move dirt in from borrow pits in woods.
  
• Leaf blow alt tech lines.
  
• Boomtown fly over armoring project. Bringing  in concrete blocks to abate erosion. Heavy lifting and digging.
  
• LoChi boomtown fence build
  
• Zingo berm work remove rocks repack on top 3-4 berms.
  
• Blues Brothers leaf blow and jump work
  
• Cedar fence repair Wildcat and AllUp
  Boomtown fence cutoff
• Additionally if any families or groups wish to just come out and pick up litter we will gladly set them to work too!
• If you have any questions please contact Bobby or Peter