How and why Maine names its state symbols — and why these particular things have achieved the honor — is a complicated question. Even though Maine already has 31 official state symbols ...

This legislative session, between debating about how to create more affordable housing and reform our child welfare system, Maine lawmakers will decide whether to name the Seppala Siberian sled dog, ...

But, did you know that the state has a host of other official symbols? There's an official tartan (hunting tartan), mineral (galena) and even soil (Antigo Silt Loam). The list doesn't stop there.

Jan. 30—Even though Maine already has 31 official state symbols — including a soil type, soft drink, fossil and insect — there seems to be a tendency to focus on what we don't have.