Missouri has the North American bullfrog. New Hampshire has the red-spotted newt. Ohio? They don't have a state amphibian, but Central Intermediate Roots & Shoots group in Wadsorth, Ohio is trying to change that.

Members of the group are leading a campaign to get the spotted salamander named as Ohio's official state amphibian in order to raise awareness about wetland conservation. Led by fifth-grade teacher and Roots & Shoots Volunteer Ohio State Coordinator Leah Crocker, the group has teamed up with Wetlands Education Team (W.E.T.)—the student-led organization that started the campaign—to get legislation passed in the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives.

Roots & Shoots members asked students at their school to sign a petition to get the bill introduced and then sent postcards to Senate members asking them to support the bill.

If the bill is passed in both houses, all fourth-graders in Ohio will learn about the spotted salamander, which can found every county in the state. Students will also learn about its wetland habitat.

"Wetlands are important to the health and welfare of all Ohioans," said Isabella Todaro, a student campaign participant. "They reduce flooding, control erosion and purify run-off water. They're also a source of recreation and a place of food, shelter and habitat for endangered species and other wildlife."

Four Roots & Shoots members traveled to Columbus, the state capital, to testify in favor of the bill at a Senate hearing. Thanks to their testimony, the petition and all the post cards, Senate Bill 240 passed in a 32-0 vote.

The group is now focusing on passing the bill in the state's House of Representatives.

If you live in Ohio, send a postcard to your representatives and let them know you care about this issue. If you live outside of Ohio, keep your fingers crossed for the spotted salamander!