Discover how Forests for Monarchs protects monarch butterflies, restores ecosystems, and empowers local communities—and how you can be a part of it.
Welcome to Forests for Monarchs!
Whether you’re a new subscriber, a first-time donor, or just curious about our work — this guide will walk you through who we are, why our mission matters, and how you can join us in protecting the iconic monarch butterfly through reforestation.
Who We Are:
You may know us as Forests for Monarchs, but we began in 1997 as the La Cruz Habitat Protection Project—a name you’ll still see occasionally. We’re a US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit restoring forests in central Mexico through a community forestry model.
We focus on two high-priority regions:
- The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and its buffer zone
- The Highland Lakes Watershed region of Michoacán
We’ve planted more than 13.5 million trees with local partners—and we’re not close to finished!
Learn more about our history here.
Why it Matters:
The monarch butterfly undertakes one of the most complex migrations in the insect world, traveling nearly 3,000 miles to reach the forests of central Mexico. These butterflies depend on dense, high-elevation oyamel pine forests to survive the winter.
Without trees, there is no winter habitat. And without this vital stop, the monarch’s migration between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico breaks down.
But the importance of these forests goes far beyond monarchs.
Healthy forests:
- Stabilize soil and prevent erosion
- Replenish groundwater
- Regulate local and regional climates
- Support biodiversity, including migratory birds, endemic species, fungi, and native pollinators
- Strengthen communities by supporting livelihoods and food security
Learn more about the monarch butterfly here.
How We Work:
We partner directly with landowners, many of whom are part of ejidos or indigenous communities. Since we don’t own the land, we’re helping these communities restore their land by providing native tree seedlings, technical support, and year-round guidance to empower local people to lead their own reforestation efforts.
Key elements of our approach include:
- Mixed native tree species suited to each site
- Training and education in sustainable land management
- Long-term forest restoration and protection
- Ongoing community collaboration and site monitoring
Learn more about our Education & Outreach efforts here.
Your Impact: How You Can Help
- Donate – Just $1 plants a tree
- Stay informed – Share this post, follow us, and subscribe
- Fundraise or Partner – Bring tree planting to your school or workplace
- Collaborate – Reach out with your skills or ideas
Let’s Stay Connected
This work is only possible because of people like you. We may not be able to do everything—but together, we can do something meaningful.
The trees planted today grow into tomorrow’s thriving habitats.
