Stonefly

Delaware adopted the stonefly (order Plecoptera) as the official state macroinvertebrate May 4, 2005. Delaware is the first state to designate a "macroinvertebrate" symbol (Delaware also recognizes two other insect symbols: a state bug and a state butterfly). All State Insects

The stonefly was chosen to represent Delaware because it's an indicator of the excellent water quality in the state. As a state symbol it also provides a way to raise public awareness of water quality issues and complement citizen action programs such as Delaware Stream Watch.

Adoption of the stonefly as the official State macroinvertebrate was supported by the following schools: Gunning-Bedford Middle School, Salesianum High School, Delcastle Technical High School, Dickinson High School Environmental Club, The Independence School, Springer Middle School, St. Andrews School, and The Charter School of Wilmington (through participation in the Delaware Stream Watch Program).

Chapter 37, Formerly House Bill NO. 77

WHEREAS, the availability of clean, safe water is essential for all Delawareans and aquatic life; and

WHEREAS, macroinvertebrates are key indicators of water quality; and

WHEREAS, designating a State macroinvertebrate is a highly appropriate means to raise public awareness of water quality issues, and complement citizen action programs like Delaware Stream Watch; and

WHEREAS, through their participation in the Delaware Stream Watch Program the designation of the stonefly as the official State macroinvertebrate is supported by the following schools: Gunning-Bedford Middle School, Salesianum High School, Delcastle Technical High School, Dickinson High School Environmental Club, The Independence School, Springer Middle School, St. Andrews School, and The Charter School of Wilmington, and

WHEREAS, the stonefly (Order Plecoptera) indigenous to Delaware having been found in streams throughout New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties, is an indicator of excellent water quality; and

WHEREAS, the stonefly herein designated as the official State macroinvertebrate is emblematic and fitting to accompany Delaware’s other official symbols; and

WHEREAS, the designation of the stonefly is a means whereby Delaware State government can recognize the importance of excellent water quality and the vital role played by healthy aquatic ecosystems in Delaware; and

WHEREAS, Delaware might once again demonstrate its leadership as the First State as currently no other state in the United States has designated an official State macroinvertebrate to accompany their State flag, State flower, State bird, State bug, State butterfly and State marine animal.

NOW THEREFORE: BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE:

Section 1. Amend Chapter 3, Title 29 of the Delaware Code by adding thereto a new Section designated as § 320 to read as follows:

“§ 320. State macroinvertebrate. The stonefly (Order Plecoptera) is the official macroinvertebrate of the State.” Approved May 4, 2005