The National Wildlife Federation

Community Profile

Pledge Status

Active

Pledge Date

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Program Year

2024

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Town of Oakville

Town of Oakville, ON

Rob Burton

Mayor

Pledge Summary

In the harmonious and vibrant community of Oakville, Ontario, an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable living is evident. This dedication beautifully intertwines with the town's efforts in monarch and pollinator conservation, showcasing Oakville's profound respect for nature and its inhabitants. Monarch and Pollinator Conservation in Oakville: A Testament to Environmental Responsibility Community Engagement and Education: Oakville's residents and local organizations, such as the Oakville Horticultural Society and Halton Region Master Gardeners, play a pivotal role in educating and engaging the community in pollinator conservation. Workshops, community programs, and informative resources are provided to enhance awareness about the importance of pollinators and the threats they face. Promotion of Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: The town encourages residents to cultivate pollinator-friendly gardens, especially in boulevard spaces. This initiative aligns with Oakville's policy of reducing water usage and avoiding harmful pesticides. Planting native and diverse plant species not only beautifies the town but also creates a haven for monarch butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Support for Native Plant Species: Oakville's commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its encouragement of planting native species that are crucial for pollinators. The town provides guidance on selecting plants that bloom from spring to fall, offering a sustainable source of nectar for monarchs and other pollinators. Habitat Creation and Preservation: The town's green spaces, including its 1,700 hectares of parklands and over 300 kilometres of active recreational trails, serve as vital habitats for pollinators. Efforts are made to maintain these areas in ways that support the life cycles of monarchs and other important pollinators. Reducing Pesticide Use: In line with its environmental policies, Oakville advocates for the minimal use of pesticides, promoting natural alternatives to ensure the health and safety of pollinators. This approach is instrumental in creating a safe environment for monarchs during their critical breeding and feeding times. Collaborative Efforts with Educational Institutions: Sheridan College's innovative programs and the town's partnership with educational and conservation groups play a crucial role in pollinator conservation. Research and projects focusing on sustainable practices contribute significantly to conservation efforts. Community Events Focused on Conservation: Oakville hosts various events and festivals that often include themes of environmentalism and conservation. These events serve as platforms for raising awareness about the plight of monarchs and the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem.

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Community Spotlight

Action Items Committed for 2024

Communications and Convening

  • Issue a proclamation to raise awareness about the decline of the monarch butterfly and the species’ need for habitat. This proclamation must incorporate a focus on monarch conservation.
  • Engage with gardening leaders and partners (e.g., Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, Nature Centers, Native Plant Society Chapters , other long-standing and influential community leaders) to support monarch butterfly conservation.
  • Engage with city parks and recreation, public works, sustainability, and other relevant staff to identify opportunities to revise and maintain mowing programs and milkweed / native nectar plant planting programs.

Program and Demonstration Gardens

  • Launch, expand, or continue an invasive species removal program that will support the re-establishment of native habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators.
  • Plant or maintain a monarch and pollinator-friendly demonstration garden at City Hall or another prominent or culturally significant community location.

Systems Change

  • Reduce or eliminate the use of herbicides, pesticides, or other chemicals that are harmful to monarchs and pollinators and urban wildlife.
  • Launch, expand, or continue an effort to change municipal planting ordinances and practices to include more native milkweed and native nectar producing plants at city properties.
  • Increase the percentage of native plants, shrubs and trees that must be used in city landscaping ordinances and encourage use of milkweed, where appropriate.