Seneca Park Zoo is our region’s largest conservation organization,
reaching more than 600,000 individuals each year through our
conservation education and action programs. The Zoo is also heavily
involved heavily in species survival, raising critical funds and awareness
for the many threatened species whose continued existence relies on
positive, collective human action.
Monarch Butterfly The Butterfly Beltway is a cornerstone project for Seneca Park Zoo, embodying our commitment to species conservation and habitat preservation. Beyond its ecological impact, this initiative serves as a vital platform for fostering scientific inquiry and sustainable practices. We believe that healthy ecosystems are integral to healthy communities, and our public gardens in Corn Hill along the Genesee River and the Tyshaun Cauldwell Memorial Garden offer welcoming spaces for community scientists and those seeking a serene connection with nature. Over the past year, the project has made significant strides in habitat restoration. Seeded restoration efforts have expanded to include up to 5 acres in SUNY Brockport and another 5 acres at RIT, where these habitats are part of a long-term study exploring pollinator networks, public health benefits, ecosystem services, and the efficacy of different seeding methods.
Since its inception in 2002, the Butterfly Beltway has rehabilitated and restored over 125 acres of habitats and 350 gardens. Our expanded native seed offerings now include 10 specialized mixes tailored for specific conditions, such as soil challenges, grow height preferences, and deer resistance, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for various landscapes.
In 2024, we enhanced our community outreach through pollinator focused programming at our onsite Nature Cart. Over the summer, we engaged with more than 10,000 guests in meaningful conversations,
distributing nearly 1,000 flower seed packets to empower individuals to act in their own backyards.
This ongoing work exemplifies the Zoo’s mission to inspire our community to connect with, care for, and conserve wildlife and wild places. Through innovative partnerships, impactful education, and a shared vision for sustainability, the Butterfly Beltway continues to
thrive as a model for conservation leadership.
To learn more visit senecaparkzoo.org/butterflybeltway
You can get involved!
Seneca Park Zoo’s Butterfly Beltway program allows individuals to purchase and plant native pollinator gardens. Your Zoo offers a variety of seed mixes. Unlike the seed mixes you see in box stores, our mixes are carefully chosen and geographically focused to our rea. We take great care to include native species that are best suited to thrive in our local environment, ensuring the highest chances of success.
By choosing our seed mixes, you can help support the conservation of local wildlife and create a beautiful, sustainable landscape, as well as supporting our Butterfly Beltway project with sales proceeds.
Written by Beth LaPierre
