Student-advocated state tree bill signed into law. Quaking Aspen SB41

 Step aside, Colorado blue spruce. Utah has a new state tree.

Gov. Gary Herbert joined students at Monroe Elementary School on Wednesday to sign SB41, which designates the quaking aspen as the state's arboreal symbol.

The event marked the end of an effort that began last year when fourth-grade students from Monroe Elementary appealed to the governor during a visit to Sevier County that the aspen — not the spruce — represents the state's forests.

That conversation led to the drafting of SB41, which was sponsored by Monroe Elementary alumnus Sen. Ralph Okerlund, R-Monroe.

"It’s just wonderful to see our young people getting involved," Herbert said after the bill signing. "I come away very excited about the future of Utah by having spent some time here in Monroe Elementary."

SB41 was approved relatively quickly by lawmakers during the 2014 Legislature, clearing the Senate unanimously and then securing a 54-19 vote in the House.

Benjamin Wood. Deseret News.