In addition, herbicide and pesticide use may have caused populations to decline. Current efforts should focus on managing existing populations of Mead's milkweed. Landowners can take an active role in managing tall grass and hay meadow prairies to encourage and protect this rare plant. Haying done early in the year, prior to seed maturation, prevents Mead's milkweed from setting its seeds and reproducing. The absence of fire allows plant litter to accumulate and woody species to invade prairie habitat.
Fire reduces plant litter, releases nutrients into the soil, and warms the soil.
Fire also suppresses the invasion of woody plants into prairies. If unchecked, woody plants can convert prairies into habitat unsuitable for the milkweed. Overgrazing Intensive grazing allows woody and non-native plant species to invade prairies and increases soil erosion. Do not apply herbicide to actively growing Mead's milkweed. Do not harm or kill bumblebees found on site with Mead's milkweed.