2. Take Action

Write to your local Paper

how to write a letter to the editor

If you want to speak up for public lands, one of the most effective tools is free, quick, and local: a letter to the editor. Lawmakers keep a close eye on them. Neighbors read them. And editors use them to keep a pulse on what matters to their readers.

You don’t have to be a writer, just someone who cares. Here’s a simple format to get you started:

1. Raise the issue. “Last summer, Congress threw the door wide open to selling off and privatizing our nation’s public lands.”

2. Share your expertise. Why are you qualified to write on the topic? You don’t need to be an expert (although it’s great if you are!), just share your experience with public lands and why they matter to you.

3. Refer to the legislator you are trying to influence by name. “I encourage Representative Jeff Hurd to draw a line in the sand for Colorado and reject efforts to undermine public lands ownership.”

4. Keep it short and real. 150–200 words is plenty.