Due to the drastic decline in monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) populations, the Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative (OPHI) and local Soil & Water Conservation Districts are again seeking public involvement to collect common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) seed ponds from established plants September 1 through October 31. This is an annual event and we hope you can participate !
The seeds will be used to establish new plantings and additional habitat for the monarch butterfly throughout the buckeye state. These future plantings will increase the food source for the caterpillar stage.
Seed pods from common milkweed should be collected ONLY WHEN THE PODS ARE DRY AND BROWN-GREY in color. If the center seam pops with gentle pressure, they can be picked. The seeds in green pods will not be viable and won’t be able to be used. Be patient and don’t collect too soon !
It is best to collect pods into paper bags. Avoid using plastic bags because they can allow mold to develop. It is recommended to wear disposable gloves when picking the handling pods. Ideally, it is recommended to leave at least 50 percent of the seed crop at a given site to allow for natural regrowth of the native population the next growing season. There are situations where total collection can occur. For example: If the field or area will be mowed completely or the area will be converted for crop or development. A collection container is located outside the door of the Van Wert SWCD, 1185 Professional Drive, Van Wert.
The Van Wert SWCD held their 75th Annual Meeting by co-hosting with the Van Wert Farm Bureau at the Ag Banquet on Tuesday, August 13 at Life House Church, Van Wert, OH. A SWCD election was held for two supervisor positions on the SWCD Board of Supervisors five member Board. Elliot Callow and Brett Schumm were elected to serve a three year term commencing January 1, 2025.
Dinner was provided by Streetlight Catering.
Wyatt Friedrich was the SWCD Scholarship recipient. Dustin Schaadt was recognized by the SWCD and received the Conservation Farmer Award. This award is given to honor individuals for their conservation achievements. Farm Bureau honored their scholarship recipient.
Farm Bureau presented Membership Ag Awards. The Van Wert Ag Hall of Fame Award was presented to Farm Focus for their many agricultural accomplishments.
Sponsors for the evening were: Farm Bureau, the Van Wert Soil and Water Conservation District and Ag Credit.
Ag Hall of Fame Recipients- Farm Focus
Pictured with SWCD board members
Conservation Farmer of the Year- Dustin Schaadt pictured with SWCD supervisor Craig Pohlman
1185 Professional Drive, Van Wert, OH 45891US
(419) 238-9591 or (567) 259-4253 email: becky@vanwertswcd.com
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