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.