The Monarch Butterfly, designated as Illinois' State Insect, once thrived with a population of approximately 1 billion in 1996 across the United States. Unfortunately, their numbers have rapidly declined by about 90 percent in recent years, primarily due to threats like habitat loss from agricultural practices, development, cropland conversion and wintering habitat degradation in Mexico and California.

In recognition of this issue, Mayor Harriet Rosenthal pledged support for Monarchs and other pollinators through the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayor's Monarch Pledge on May 2, 2016. The Village, an NWF Monarch Leadership Circle designee, is taking substantial steps to combat the decline of monarchs. Initiatives include banning neonicotinoid pesticides on Village land, updating landscape ordinances to encourage milkweed and native nectar plants, distributing free milkweed seeds and organizing educational events.

Mayor Dan Shapiro and the Board of Trustees are dedicated to fulfilling the Mayor's Monarch pledge in Deerfield by converting village-owned properties into Native Gardens. Furthermore, the Sustainability Commission continues provide education and raise awareness about the Monarch butterfly and other pollinator species.