An announcement from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) on Thursday called for an initiative to raise $20 million to better the plight of Monarch butterflies that are facing the risk of extinction.

This cause has kindled interest in conservatives as the species of butterfly is known to be an iconic symbol of the United States.

Dan Ashe, Fish and Wildlife Director accompanied by US Sen. Amy Klobuchar, said an amount of $4m would be provided by the agency in the next five years to significantly reduce the risk of extinction the monarchs are facing. The declaration from the White House in support of the species has encouraged the move.

The declaration gave a clarion message that these species are very important for pollination of fauns, and actions to ensure their prevention from extinction must be taken. The last few years have seen alarming decline in their population.

“We can save the monarch butterfly in North America, but only if we act quickly and together. And that is why we are excited to be working with the National Wildlife Federation and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to engage Americans everywhere, from schools and community groups to corporations and governments”, said Ashe.

The money for making efforts to save Monarch butterfly would be shared with conservationists to ensure their breeding and migration throughout the country, including Minnesota, said Ashe at the Monarch conservation celebration of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife.