U.S. Proposes 'Threatened' Status for Monarch Butterflies, Prompting Economic Concerns
The plan aims to protect declining monarch populations while balancing conservation with economic activities, but Texas officials warn of potential impacts on rural industries.
- The Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing monarch butterflies as a 'threatened' species under the Endangered Species Act due to significant population declines.
- Monarch populations in North America have dropped by 80-90%, driven by habitat loss, insecticide use, climate change, and deforestation in Mexico.
- Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller criticized the proposal, calling it federal overreach that could harm rural industries, including farming, energy, and infrastructure development.
- Conservation advocates argue the regulations will be flexible and tailored, with exemptions for many activities and funding for landowners to support monarch habitats.
- A public comment period on the proposal is open until March 12, 2025, allowing stakeholders to provide input on the plan's potential economic and environmental impacts.
BorderReport 
Fort Worth Star-Telegram 