Cape May Point Arts and Science Center to host International Conference on Monarch Butterflies

Project Monarch Exchange brings renowned scientists and conservationists together this July, with special public events offering behind-the-scenes access to research, technology, and international partnerships shaping monarch conservation.

The public will have a rare opportunity from July 13 to July 15 to meet and interact with North America’s leading monarch butterfly scientists, conservationists, and technology innovators when the Cape May Point Arts and Science Center hosts Project Monarch Exchange, an international gathering of experts from the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Two special public events will highlight the exchange. A Meet-and-Greet Kickoff Reception on Monday, July 13 at 6:00 p.m., will give attendees the chance to talk with scientists and conservation leaders whose work is helping unlock the mysteries of monarch migration. A second public event, the Project Monarch Fundraiser on Wednesday, July 15 at 5 p.m., will feature the full-length premiere of the documentary, “Monarch: Generation Treasures” produced by Cape May Point Arts and Science Center, followed by talks and Q&A with distinguished guests representing World Wildlife Fund Mexico and Mexico’s National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), organizations that play a critical role in protecting the forests that shelter millions of monarchs each year. Their participation offers a unique opportunity for the public to hear firsthand about conservation efforts taking place at the monarchs’ overwintering grounds and the international partnerships helping to preserve one of nature’s most remarkable migrations. Project Monarch Exchange serves as both a scientific summit and a collaborative workshop focused on advancing monarch conservation across North America.

Scientists, researchers and others will work to develop best-practice guidelines for Monarch tagging and field research, strengthen Project Monarch’s data systems and mobile app, identify future priorities, and ultimately create a coordinated roadmap for upcoming research and conservation activities.

For nature enthusiasts, educators, students, gardeners, conservationists, artists, and anyone captivated by the monarch butterfly’s incredible journey, the July 13 reception and July 15 fundraiser offer something rarely available outside major scientific conferences: direct access to the experts conducting the research, developing the technology, and protecting the habitats that make this migration possible.

Project Monarch Exchange is hosted by the Cape May Point Arts and Science Center and reflects the Center’s commitment to fostering collaboration, discovery, and public engagement in science and conservation. By bringing together experts from across North America and opening portions of the event to the public, the Center hopes to inspire greater appreciation for monarch butterflies and the collective effort required to ensure their future. 

For tickets and more event information, visit www.capemaypointartsandsciencecenter.org