Governor Kevin Stitt has signed the Lucile Morehouse Pollinator Act into law, establishing four official Oklahoma insect designations that recognize the essential role insects play in agriculture, conservation, biodiversity, and healthy ecosystems.
The Act creates the following official state designations:
- European Honeybee (Apis mellifera) — Oklahoma State Agricultural Pollinator
- American Bumblebee (Bombus pensylvanicus) — Oklahoma State Native Insect
- Carolina Mantis (Stagmomantis carolina) — Oklahoma State Predator Insect
- Rainbow Scarab (Phanaeus vindex) — Oklahoma State Soil Conservation Insect
Together, these designations celebrate species that pollinate crops, preserve native ecosystems, provide natural pest control, and improve soil health—highlighting Oklahoma’s commitment to agriculture, environmental stewardship, and conservation education.
The legislation is named in honor of Lucile Morehouse, a 15-year-old Oklahoma 4-H State Ambassador and founder of Lucile’s Pollinator Project, whose dedication to pollinator education and conservation inspired the measure. Since launching her project at age 11, Morehouse has educated millions of people through workshops, educational resources, media outreach, legislative advocacy, and partnerships promoting pollinator-friendly habitats across Oklahoma and beyond.
“Having the Lucile Morehouse Pollinator Act signed into law is an incredible honor, but this legislation has never been about me,” said Morehouse. “It is about recognizing the remarkable insects that quietly support Oklahoma every day. From producing the food we eat to improving our soil and protecting our native landscapes, these species are essential to the health of our state.”
“I hope this Act encourages people of all ages to learn more about the insects around them and inspires future generations to become good stewards of our natural resources. Every person has the ability to make a positive impact, and conservation begins with education.”
The Lucile Morehouse Pollinator Act reflects a shared commitment among Oklahoma leaders, educators, agricultural organizations, conservation partners, and citizens to preserve the state’s natural resources while encouraging future generations to value science, agriculture, and environmental stewardship.
“This legislation demonstrates what can happen when young people are encouraged to pursue their passions and serve their communities,” Morehouse said. “I am deeply grateful to Governor Stitt, the members of the Oklahoma Legislature, Oklahoma 4-H, my mentors, my family, and everyone who believed in this vision. This accomplishment belongs to all of us.”
About Lucile Morehouse
Lucile Morehouse is an Oklahoma 4-H State Ambassador, Oklahoma State STEM Innovator, Global Youth Ambassador and founder of Lucile’s Pollinator Project, and a nationally recognized youth leader in pollinator conservation and agricultural education. Through statewide and national outreach, she has inspired millions through educational programming, workshops, media appearances, partnerships, and conservation initiatives. Her mission is to educate, inspire, and empower others to protect pollinators and conserve the natural resources that sustain future generations.
