State senators have voted to designate the Columbia Plateau cactus as Washington’s official state cactus. Ellensburg elementary students inspire cactus billWashington State Senator Judy Warnick said the idea came from Ellensburg elementary students who researched the hardy desert plant. “They testified, and they actually brought interest to other people all over the state,” Warnick said. They’re teaching these kids that their voices matter, and that’s a lesson that’ll last a lifetime.”The vote on Senate Bill 5325 was 47-2. Washington’s Evergreen State nickname now officialThe Senate also approved a bill to formally recognize Washington’s long‑used nickname, the Evergreen State.