The annual migration of the monarch butterflies to their overwintering grounds in Mexico is the stuff of legend. This tiny insect has never even seen the place it is going to, yet it instinctively knows how to get there. The problem, however, is in the spring. When the monarchs begin to head north, you have to wonder: will there be enough milkweed?

Milkweed is the sole host plant for the monarch butterfly, the only plant on which the female will lay her eggs. But places where milkweed can grow wild without fear of being mercilessly mowed over are few and far between. I am calling on government leaders of all cities, towns and states to pass legislation protecting habitat for these very important pollinators. We can talk about saving the butterflies all we want, but unless we take active steps to permanently preserve their habitat, all our efforts will be for nothing.