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  TAKE ACTION TO SUPPORT TRAILSCongress is working on the Interior Appropriations bills for FY 2008, which include funding for trails and recreation. The Administration's proposed budget includes a significant boost for national parks but deep cuts to other trail, recreation, and conservation programs, which could result in trail and campground closures, negative impacts to resources, and loss of open space. American Hiking needs YOUR help to make increased funding for trails a reality. Take Action!Visit the House of Representatives and Senate websites, and click through to your legislators' websites. Send them an email or call their offices to let them know that as a hiker, you value hiking trails, open space, and outdoor recreation opportunities in your region and state. Use the information below or click here for a sample letter.Ask them to support the following:
These funding levels are crucial to enhance natural and cultural resource management and protection, improve visitor safety and services, and strengthen volunteer partnerships. Thank you for taking action to support hiking!General Advocacy TipsWhy should you advocate for trails? There are many reasons! You are the best advocate, familiar with the health, economic, environmental, and cultural benefits of trails and hiking in your community and your state. Anyone who can make a phone call or write a letter can lobby, and it makes a difference. Every conceivable cause has its advocates. If Congress doesn’t hear from you, other interests will influence priorities and gain support or funding that should go to trails and recreation.Follow the tips below to communicate with your legislators about trail and hiking-related issues important to you: To track legislation and locate your legislators online, go to www.house.gov and www.senate.gov. Also visit the Library of Congress Web site for comprehensive information about Congress and legislation, including links to the judicial and administrative branches as well as state and local governments. Letters, Emails, and FaxesPersonal letters are considered the most effective and persuasive way of communicating with elected officials, but email and faxes have become much more acceptable given the security concerns associated with traditional mail. Keep in mind that emails and faxes must be personalized to be effective.In your letter or other correspondence, be sure to:
To write your Senator: Dear Senator (last name): To write your Representative: Dear Representative (last name): Phone CallsYou can reach any Congress Member by calling the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 or the Congressperson's office directly. The fact that a legislator receives 20 or so calls on your issue just before a vote can make a difference.If you can't reach the aide who handles trails issues, leave your message with the person who answered the phone. Be brief. Your message can be two sentences — one asking for support (or opposition); the other stating why. (You may want to write it out before you call).
Hiker's Info Center ||
Trail Conservation & Policy ||
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