You have likely seen many vibrant orange and black Monarch butterflies soaring through our area over the last month. These butterflies have been making their 3,000-mile journey south from Canada to Mexico, where they will overwinter in the oyamel fir trees.

A Port Clinton family group has been working to sustain the habitat for this iconic species while educating others on the importance of milkweed gardens. Milkweed is essential for all four stages of the Monarch’s survival – from egg to caterpillar, and chrysalis to butterfly.

To make sure the milkweed that sustains Monarch butterflies is readily available to the colorful migrating Monarchs, the local conservationists will hand out free milkweed seed this Saturday, Oct. 10, at Port Clinton’s Lakeview Park, 1100 East Perry St., Port Clinton.

If you are interested in planting your own Monarch butterfly patch or container garden, pick up the free milkweed seeds near Lakeview Park’s concession stand from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Volunteers will be available to provide fall planting information, or you can also reach the group at FlyToMeMonarchs@gmail.com.