Community Profile

Pledge Status

Active

Pledge Date

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Program Year

2026

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City of Gastonia

Gastonia, NC

Richard Franks

Mayor

Pledge Summary

The City of Gastonia is committed to monarch and pollinator conservation and has been a Bee City USA affiliate since 2018. Through Keep Gastonia Beautiful, the City supports pollinator-friendly practices, public education, and habitat enhancement. In 2026, Gastonia is partnering with community gardens and Master Gardener Volunteers to grow and install additional milkweed and native nectar plants at key public locations to support monarch breeding and migration. These efforts reflect a strong, ongoing commitment to protecting pollinators through community partnerships and sustainable land stewardship.

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Community Spotlight

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Environmental Education beds

These beds are made out of recycled boat docks that have been upcycled to make sturdy beds. Small outdoor classroom is available and the beds include items that people can touch and smell.

Action Items Committed for 2026

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.

Program and Demonstration Gardens ▸

  • Facilitate or support a milkweed seed collection and propagation effort.
  • Display educational signage at monarch gardens and pollinator habitat.
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