Each of the the 50 states of the union have an official seal, official flag, and an official bird, tree, flower, and song. Some (like Iowa) have an official rock.
Recently artist Renee Graef posted encouragement for an official microbe for her state of Wisconsin, along with her delightful illustration: “I’m for Lactococcus Lactis to be Wisconsin’s official State Microbe!
“It is integral in the making of cheese and buttermilk. Passing AB 800 is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about the cheesemaking process and microbiology.
“We like good microbes!”
Only a few states have an official state microbe.
Several have state fossils, including Wisconsin. Iowa has neither.
I know the Iowa State Legislature has more important things to do, but I’d like to see the crinoid as Iowa’s State Fossil. So would The Culture Buzz‘s John Busbee, who has collected crinoids for decades. Here’s his column from an earlier issue of Iowa History Journal.
Here in Nevada, I think they need to select a state type of sand … 😉
Good one, Andrew!
The crinoid as Iowa’s state fossil has my support-but I don’t live in Iowa. Good luck with your efforts Joy and John! 🙂
I was surprised to learn that Iowa named a State Bird during the Great Depression, 1933! Seems like the legislature would have better things to decide in those days.
You would think they would have offered more than just a fluffy little distraction from their hardships. 🙂
I do have to wonder at the point of adopting state things like that. Not that I object. Just wish legislators would solve some real problems.
Yes!
Very interesting, Joy. 😊
Maybe they will get students interested in microbes or fossils!
It got me interested.
Never knew this! Interesting!
These might get kids/adults to look up stuff!
I dunno, I think a state microbe might be a bit much, although Ms. Graef does make a good case for it.
Maybe kids would study it, maybe even adults!
That could very well be!