Bill > SB148

This bill designates the Blue Dasher (scientifically known as Pachydiplax longipennis) as the official state dragonfly of Delaware, following an environmental education project involving nearly 900 students statewide. The bill's extensive preamble highlights the ecological importance of dragonflies, particularly their role in maintaining ecosystem balance by consuming insects, including mosquitoes and agricultural pests. The Blue Dasher, which is one of the most common dragonflies in North America, typically inhabits still water environments like ponds and marshes, and grows between 0.98–1.69 inches long. The legislation also underscores the broader context of dragonfly conservation, noting that these insects face threats from habitat destruction, agricultural runoff, pesticides, and climate change. By officially recognizing the Blue Dasher, the bill aims to raise awareness about the species and the critical role of dragonflies in maintaining healthy aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The bill is part of a larger effort by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources (DNREC) to protect wildlife, with 76 dragonfly and damselfly species being considered for conservation efforts in the state's 2025 Wildlife Action Plan.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142314