Whereas, Preserving and protecting Michigan’s biodiversity is of the utmost
importance to the citizens of Michigan as responsible stewards of the environment;
and,
Whereas, The Marbled Salamander (Ambystoma opacum) is a unique and dark-colored
amphibian found in Southwestern Michigan, known for being the only salamander
to breed during the fall season; and,
Whereas, The Marbled Salamander is currently listed as a Threatened Species
in Michigan due to its declining population in the state and is Michigan’s
only threatened amphibian; and,
Whereas, This species is threatened because of human alteration to and destruction
of the salamanders’ habitat, including fragmentation and wetland drainage,
channelization, and filling; and,
Whereas, Students Jacob Chaffee, Ashley Gremel, Tyler Hall, and Ali Van Belkum
of Rockwood’s Crestwood Elementary School, with the guidance and inspiration
of teacher Mrs. Judy Grifhorst, have shown extraordinary dedication in their
efforts to raise public awareness of this threatened salamander and to demonstrate
that young people can have a voice in state government; and now therefore be
it,
Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State
of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 6, 2003, as Marbled Salamander Awareness
Day in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to learn more about this unique
salamander and do their part to ensure that this valuable species does not become
extinct in the State of Michigan.
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