Proposed land use changes may include residential or commercial development, changes in zoning rules, tree cutting ordinances or permitting decisions, for example. It might also include development of parks or purchase of open space.

Volunteers can participate in a variety of activities to further our Conservation goals. Issues change frequently, but the following are examples of our work.

Monitoring

Many cities issue bulletins listing permits that have been applied for, and volunteers can monitor these. Also, attending or watching city or county council meetings may bring an issue to ELWAS's attention.

Testifying

Public hearings are held by local and state governments on a regular basis. And any citizen can usually attend a council meeting and speak for three minutes at the beginning of the meeting on any topic they choose. ELWAS can coordinate citizens to testify at those hearings and council meetings, and assist with how to testify and how to make your point.

Letter writing

If public speaking isn't in your comfort zone, written communication is also accepted by local governments as testimony regarding issues before them. Emails are much more effective locally than on a national basis. And an old fashioned "snail mail" letter does have an impact. Both are entered into the official record of an issue in question.

Building relationships

Participating in the process at the beginning is almost always more effective than waiting until there is a crisis, or the public process is nearly completed. Many local governments have citizen committees or boards to listen to and give information before a decision is made. They can be part of the planning process, and make sure that issues impacting birds, wildlife and natural areas are considered up front. Members of ELWAS with an interest in participating on such committees will find it a very rewarding experience.

Conservation Committee

Participate on the Conservation Committee, bringing your own ideas and passion for what ELWAS could be working on in this area.