Here are 10 easy steps you can take to save wildlife and restore public lands:
1. Take time to explain to your friends and acquaintances the importance of Western Watersheds Project's work. Be careful not to preach. Our proof is in the work we're doing and the success we've achieved through our actions to protect public lands and wildlife.
2. Share your copy of Watersheds Messenger or ask for more. We'll gladly send more copies to you.
3. Take friends hiking on public lands and point out what you see in areas that are grazed and areas that haven't been grazed. Make note of the abundance (or dearth!) of wildlife, plants, clear water, etc.
4. Take pictures of degraded lands and mail them to the appropriate agencies and/or your congressional representatives. Explain to them what's wrong in these pictures and with the Big Picture of livestock grazing on public lands. Use your own words to express how you feel, and always request a reply.
5. Use newspapers and other media (including radio and television) as the public forums they are meant to be. Write letters to the editor or opinion pieces on public lands issues about which you feel strongly. Whenever possible, mention WWP and the National Public Lands Grazing Campaign.
6. Be an active member of WWP. Come to the annual membership meeting and our special events. WWP is not only one of the most effective environmental groups in the West, it's also a lot of fun!
7. Talk about WWP's Friends of Greenfire program to people who might enjoy a week of wildlife viewing, hiking, birding and hot springs hopping in the high Idaho desert. Call WWP (208788-2290) for information.
8. Provide written comments for environmental assessments or studies by agencies that impact grazing permits.
9. Attend Land Board meetings or court hearings in which WWP is a party. It is important that public officials see public support for WWP's work and conservation initiatives in general.
10. Volunteer for WWP projects. Contact us for information about our activities and upcoming projects.
