NMC Health is proud to announce that its Wildflower Garden Bee & Butterfly Refuge is now an official Monarch Waystation. Located on its Healthy Lifestyle Campus, Monarch Waystation #53595 has been certified and registered by Monarch Watch.

Why the Garden is Important

Monarch butterflies are in danger. They are losing their natural homes because of building projects and the overuse of weed killers. By keeping this garden, NMC Health helps protect the butterflies and makes sure their migration can continue. NMC Health’s habitat helps replace lost milkweed and nectar sources to ensure new generations of butterflies.

“Our Healthy Lifestyle Campus is here to support the well-being of our patients, staff, and the greater community,” said President & CEO Val Gleason. “That mission extends to the health of our local ecosystem. This Monarch Waystation shows NMC Health’s stewardship commitment to our land and our agricultural neighbors.”

The Bee & Butterfly Refuge not only provides shelter and food for monarchs but also supports other native pollinators that help local crops.

“Developing the Bee & Butterfly Refuge was a deeply rewarding project for our team,” said Shane Meier, Director of Facilities and project coordinator. “By establishing this Waystation with the necessary milkweed and nectar plants, we are providing a critical pit stop for migrating monarchs and supporting local biodiversity. It’s a simple, impactful way to contribute to our community.” NMC Health encourages community members to visit the refuge. “Our goal is to add a walking path through the butterfly refuge that will eventually connect NMC Health to the YMCA. This will allow for walks and bike rides among the wildflowers and butterflies,” said Meier.

About Monarch Watch

Monarch Watch (https://monarchwatch.org/) is a national education, conservation, and research organization. It encourages citizens, schools, and businesses to create, conserve, and protect monarch habitats to offset the ongoing habitat loss.