Due to the decline in the population of the Monarch butterfly and recent designation as an endangered species, the Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative (OPHI) is once again seeking public involvement to collect and drop off mature common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) seed pods at collection stations around the state.
The seeds will be used to establish new plantings and create additional habitat for Monarchs and other pollinators throughout Ohio.
The Lucas Soil and Water Conservation District (Lucas SWCD) is a local collection station for Lucas County.
Pods can be dropped off anytime in the designated bins at 3350 Hill Avenue, Suite K, Toledo.
Until Thursday, October 31, community members are encouraged to collect fully mature, dry milkweed pods from established plants on their property and drop them off at the nearest collection station.
Seed pods should be gathered when they are dry and gray or brown in color. If the center seam pops with gentle pressure, the pods are ready to be picked.
Pods should be put in paper bags or paper grocery sacks and labeled with the county and date collected. Avoid using plastic bags because they can attract moisture and allow mold to develop. Store seeds in a cool, dry area until donated.
Milkweed is essential to the survival of Monarch butterflies and Ohio is a priority breeding area. The butterflies that hatch here in the late summer migrate to Mexico for the winter and are responsible for starting the life cycle again in the spring.
OPHI was formed in response to the 2014 petition to list Monarchs as federally endangered.
Its mission is to inform citizens, landowners, farmers and government agencies of the importance of pollinators and the habitat they need to survive.
For more information on seed pod collection, contact OPHI at 614-620-9830, Lucas SWCD at 419-893-1966 or visit lucasswcd.org/milkweed.
