The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s December 2024 proposal to list the monarch butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, or ESA, has set the stage for significant discussions and potential changes in agricultural practices. The monarch butterfly’s decline, influenced by factors such as agricultural production and land use, has raised concerns about the impact of habitat loss and pesticide use on the species’ breeding and migration patterns. The proposal has sparked interest among environmental groups, agricultural producers, and legal experts, who are now closely examining the potential implications of the listing and the exemptions it may offer.
Brigit Rollins, staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center, or NALC, will delve into the intricacies of the proposed listing during a webinar on Feb. 19. The presentation, titled “Monarch Butterfly: Exploring the Proposed ESA Listing,” will explore the designation of “threatened” and its implications for agriculture. The webinar, which begins at 11 a.m. Central/Noon Eastern, is free to attend and open to the public. Registration is available online.
Rollins emphasized the potential impact of the listing on agricultural producers. “When a species is listed, it can impact how agricultural producers are able to operate.” The proposed listing includes exemptions for agriculture and citizen conservation efforts, but it remains unclear how pesticide restrictions and other regulations will be addressed. Rollins noted that the final listing decision or a separate rule might include more specifics about pesticide use.
The proposal is currently open for public comment through March 12, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their concerns and provide feedback. The agency has requested input on various topics, including the potential economic impacts of the proposed decision and how to address pesticide uses. Stakeholders can submit their comments online.
The monarch butterfly’s listing as threatened under the ESA is a complex issue with far-reaching implications for both environmental conservation and agricultural practices. As the public comment period approaches its deadline, the debate surrounding the proposed listing is likely to intensify, with stakeholders on both sides of the issue advocating for their interests. The February 19 webinar will provide valuable insights into the legal and practical aspects of the proposed listing, helping to inform the ongoing discussion and potential future decisions.