• Briefly explain who you are and why you are interested in the project.
• State your concerns clearly and succinctly using objective language.
• Comment only on issues relevant to the decision being made.
• State opinions and preferences, ask questions, and propose alternative solutions to  particular issues. State informed opinions and, where possible, include data to support your opinion.
• Review the project’s technical reports or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) data, comment on conclusions, assumptions and the data collecting methods.
• Keep focused on your objective. You want DPD to hear your concerns and be compelled enough to investigate further.
• Identify the topics you want to include in your letter and how you want to organize them.
• Ask for studies that you think are important but have not been provided.
• If the proposed project is subject to SEPA and you think it will have significant environmental impact, request that an EIS be prepared. 
• Provide your own information.
• Identify project features that you like and think should not be changed.
• Provide any comments about the project’s compliance with the Land Use Code.
• Ask to be added to the project mailing list and request a copy of the notice of decision.  (Copies are sent via U.S. mail, so please provide your mailing address when making request.)

ALWAYS PLACE THE PROJECT NUMBER ON ALL CORRESPONDENCE! ADD THE ADDRESS TO THE PROJECT IF KNOWN.   ALWAYS KEEP COPIES OF YOUR CORRESPONDENCE. 

If you know there is a group (like SAVE THE TREES-Seattle) that are working on a project (Ingraham) it is often helpful to send their contact person a copy of your correspondence.  This allows a file to be made and it lets the group know there are other supporters, which is a terrific  boost to the Energy needed in these battles. 

Keep up the good work, Tree Warriors!