Commissioner Sid Miller of the Texas Department of Agriculture has announced promising news for monarch butterfly conservation. According to a survey by the World Wildlife Fund-Telmex Telcel Foundation Alliance and Mexico's National Commission of Protected Natural Areas, the eastern monarch butterfly population wintering in central Mexico nearly doubled in 2025, occupying 4.42 acres compared to 2.22 acres the previous year.

“This is exactly the kind of result we can achieve when we focus on real solutions instead of heavy-handed mandates,” said Commissioner Miller. He emphasized the role of Texans, including farmers and ranchers, in preserving monarch habitats without excessive government intervention. “We need policies that empower conservation partnerships rather than penalize the people already making a difference.”

The increase in monarch populations is attributed to improved weather conditions along their migration route through North America and ongoing conservation efforts such as habitat restoration and land management practices.

Commissioner Miller previously expressed criticism towards proposals to include the eastern monarch butterfly under the Endangered Species Act. He submitted comments to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service advocating for practical conservation policies.

“This is proof we can protect monarchs and vital pollinators for agriculture without strangling farmers and ranchers with red tape,” he stated, highlighting Mexico's success in addressing forest degradation at overwintering sites.

Monarch butterflies are crucial for ecosystems and agriculture across North America, with pollinators supporting 80% of food production. Their annual migration covers nearly 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico, illustrating the importance of collaborative conservation involving landowners, conservationists, and policymakers.

For further details on agricultural initiatives supported by Commissioner Sid Miller and his department, additional information is available online.