A great way to get the message out about any issue in a small state like Wyoming is by writing a letter to the editor. In Wyoming, people are often interested in the opinions of their neighbors and the letters section of the newspapers are often some of the most popular features that a newspaper runs. The Casper Star-Tribune, Wyoming's statewide newspaper, runs almost every letter they receive, even from out-of-state. Letters can run 350 words and should be sent to <Turn on JavaScript!;

Your letter does not have to cover every important point. In fact, most papers prefer that letters run somewhere around 250 words, a limit that doesn't allow you to say all that much. But they can be the perfect format for telling people about that wonderful trip you took on the trails last summer or how you showed your friends from back East the trails or how your child was inspired to do a project on the trails after they had the opportunity to stand in the ruts. Whatever you say, as long as it comes from your heart, it is likely to have a big impact on your neighbors. 

We encourage everyone to pick up a pen -- or, better yet, open that text editing program on your computer -- and compose a letter to the editor explaining exactly why you think it is so important that these trails be protected for the future. We have compiled a listing of electronic (and regular) addresses that you can use to submit your letters to the editor. We also have a set of talking points you can use to help you organize your thoughts. But, remember, the most important thing is that your letter comes from the heart and expresses exactly why you think it is so important to protect these irreplaceable resources for the future. You can't say anything wrong. So pick up that literal or figurative pen and share your thoughts with the rest of those in Wyoming. The chances are good that your letter will have a positive impact on others!