Hackmatack Monarch Coalition to host Monarch Fair for families Aug. 11

Monarch butterfly populations have declined precipitously in recent years.

Now Mexico, Canada and the United States are collaborating on a North American strategy to conserve and recover this iconic species.

The Hackmatack Monarch Coalition invites the community to a free Monarch Family Fun Fair from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11, at Crystal Lake Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lake Shore Drive in Crystal Lake.

Attendees will learn how they can help monarch butterflies and their miraculous migration across the North American continent.

Activities include face painting, art and science activities, nature trunks, information on planting butterfly gardens and an interactive monarch migration map.

Prairie plants that provide nectar for butterflies will be available for purchase.

In addition, local community bands will be performing that afternoon at the Main Beach Bandstand - making the day a "Monarchs and Music" day.

The Community Band Showcase will feature Crystal Lake Community Band from 1 to 1:45 p.m., Knock on Wood clarinet ensemble from 2 to 2:30 p.m., Cor Corps Horn Ensemble from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m., and Crystal Lake Community Band's Jazz Band from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m.

Sponsored by Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Crystal Lake Park District featuring activities from numerous conservation, education and arts groups involved in the Hackmatack Monarch Coalition.

For more information, visit hackmatacknwr.org.