The resolution recognizes the significance of the monarch butterfly, which is proposed to be listed as a threatened species by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in 2025. It highlights the butterfly's role in pollination and ecosystem health, emphasizing its dependence on milkweed plants for reproduction and larval development. The resolution notes that habitat loss, particularly the decline of milkweed, has led to a decrease in monarch populations. It advocates for the use of agricultural, transportation, and state-managed lands to provide suitable habitats for monarchs while maintaining their primary functions.
Furthermore, the resolution encourages voluntary and cooperative conservation efforts that respect private property rights and agricultural practices. It calls on state agencies, local governments, and land managers to preserve existing milkweed and prioritize pollinator-friendly native seed mixes in restoration efforts. The resolution also urges federal agencies to collaborate with South Dakota stakeholders in implementing conservation strategies, emphasizing the importance of voluntary participation and technical assistance while minimizing regulatory impacts on agriculture and land use.