In 1998, the Vermont Legislature resolved to have the Vermont Arts Council establish a committee to find and recommend a new state song to replace "Hail to Vermont!".[2] The committee subsequently solicited candidates and reviewed 107 songs, choosing eight songs as finalists. Following a solicitation of input from the Vermont public, "These Green Mountains" was put forth as their official recommendation.[3]
The song was composed by Diane Martin and arranged by Rita Buglass-Gluck and was made official on May 22, 2000, when then-governor Howard Dean signed Act 99.[4]