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Letter Writing 101

To help make it easy to write an effective letter to a land manager or politician, Lori Taylor from the Skagit Motorcycle Club provided us this great, basic outline. It's applicable for typed letters or e-mails.

A. Introduce the topic you wish to discuss.

B. Provide a short background of your ORV activities.

This builds the basis for your concern and shows your dedication to the sport. Examples:

• I ride with my family/kids/friends
• Number of years riding experience
• History of use of specific lands/riding areas
• Any volunteer trail work or ORV legislation you participate in
• Membership in clubs, regional (NMA) or national (AMA) organizations

C. State specifically what you support or object to.

D. Offer suggestions for improvement or alternative solutions (if applicable).

This demonstrates that you aren't just looking for an outlet to complain, but are willing to contribute to developing solutions.

E. Thank them for their time, interest and commitment to your issues.

F. Use a formal closing, including your full home address.

A few points to remember:

• Remain polite and respectful
• Don't make demands, instead ask for cooperation or ask that they consider the needs of responsible ORV users
• Clearly state your opinion, don't be vague
• If you expect a response, clearly request one

11/28/2001