North Central Chapter

A Renewed Commitment to Monarchs and to the Future

The volunteers of the White Settlement Monarch Waystation were recently honored with a formal proclamation from Mayor Faron Young, reaffirming the City of White Settlement’s participation in the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge and its continued commitment to monarch and pollinator conservation.

The proclamation recognizes the monarch butterfly as an iconic migratory species whose populations have declined across North America due to habitat loss, climate pressures, and the loss of native milkweed and nectar plants. It underscores the essential role municipalities play in restoring habitat, fostering environmental stewardship, and engaging communities in meaningful conservation action.

Since first joining the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge in 2017, the City has continued enhancing parks, open spaces, and natural areas to support pollinators and wildlife. The renewed proclamation outlines goals to expand pollinator-friendly habitats, strengthen educational programming and partnerships, encourage conservation practices among residents and businesses, and deepen collaboration across the community.

In presenting the proclamation, Mayor Young expressed his appreciation for the White Settlement Monarch Waystation and its dedicated volunteers, acknowledging their leadership in native plant restoration, public education, and community engagement. His support reflects a shared vision: that local action can contribute to large-scale conservation.

For members of the North Central Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas, this moment represents more than recognition; It affirms that native plant advocacy, when rooted in partnership and persistence, can shape public policy and inspire lasting change.

Looking ahead, we are energized by this renewed commitment. We envision expanding the Waystation as a living classroom, a refuge for migrating monarchs, and a gathering place where future generations can connect with the natural world. Our goal is not only to support monarch populations along their migratory journey, but also to cultivate a community that values and protects native habitats.

Together, we look forward to growing the White Settlement Monarch Waystation for future generations of both monarchs and people.

About the Region

Fall Symposium 2025 Logo - Teach for the Future

Salado, the location of our Fall 2025 Symposium, lies at the intersection of two ecoregions: the Edwards Plateau (Limestone Cut Plain) and Blackland Prairie (Northern Blackland Prairie).

The Edwards Plateau area is also called the Hill Country; however, this general term covers a much larger area extending farther north. Spring-fed creeks are found throughout the region; deep limestone canyons, rivers, and lakes (reservoirs) are common. Ashe juniper is perhaps the most common woody species found throughout the region. Additional woody species include various species of oak, with live oak (Quercus fusiformis) being the most common. Sycamores (Platanus occidentalis) and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) border waterways. This area is well known for its spring wildflower displays, though they may be viewed in spring, late summer, and fall, as well. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, average annual rainfall in the Edwards Plateau ranges from 15 to 34 inches.

The Blackland Prairie extends from the Red River south to San Antonio, bordered on the west by the Edwards Plateau and the Cross Timbers, and on the east by the Post Oak Savannah. Annual rainfall averages 30 to 40 inches, with higher averages to the east. This region is dominated by prairie species. The most common grass species include little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) and Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) in the uplands and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in the riparian areas and drainages. Common herbaceous flowering plants include salvias, penstemons, and silphiums. This area has suffered greatly from overgrazing and agricultural use. Few intact areas remain, though many of the plants can be found along county roadsides throughout the region.

Our fall Symposium host chapter, the Tonkawa Chapter, includes both of these ecoregions.

Source: Wildflowers of Texas by Michael Eason