This Week's Update Includes:

• News: Experts and World Leaders Visit
• Slideshow: A Race Against Time
• Get Ready: Spring Migration About to Begin!

"The Monarch butterfly unites the three countries of North America in peace," President Carter said. "It is an ambassador of peace which requires protected areas and ecosystems that are preserved through sustainable agricultural and forestry practices. Let us continue to work together to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem for all North America."

Low Population Predicted
Dr. Brower predicts the lowest population ever recorded, and spells out the conservation challenges in his trip report. Mexican scientists are expected to release the official count any time, probably at the end of the tourist season.

Tagging Success!
We returned home with FOUR Southwest Monarch Study tags, Gail Morris of Southwest Monarch Study reports.

"I hope everyone can see how we in Arizona (and likely other Western states) also have a vested interest in understanding and protecting habitat in Mexico."

Snow in March!
The monarch's high elevation habitat is cool, but last Friday's snowstorm was an unusual March occurrence. Migration should begin soon Estela reports this week.

"Each day I am looking skyward hoping to witness monarchs flying overhead as they set off on their spring migration!"