Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Our Official California State Grass. I wrote the legislation which designated Stipa pulchra as the official state grass of California. Purple needlegrass had languished for thirty years, As our possible official grass, when I recognized its pending status. I had founded the Quail Ridge Wilderness Conservancy, a land trust, And, as a New Englander, commenced studying California flora. I wrote the legislation for this grass and with the help Of Representative Lois Wolk and Senator Michael (Mike) Machado, It passed 22 years ago unanimously in both the Assembly and Senate. This was a wonderful accomplishment because of Its long 'gestation,' as well as its usefulness In our California school farming program, Ag in the Classroom. I personally continued to help with designated state grasses For several other states that also finally designated official state grasses. This small accomplishment is one more step Towards educating our children (and others) concerning The importance of understanding our natural heritages. Frank Maurer 24 August 2026 1330 Hours.