Policy Tools » Policy Action for Ecological Scientists: USGS
Date, 2007
The Honorable (first and last name of Senator)
United States Senate
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator (last name of Senator):
(OR FOR LETTERS TO REPRESENATIVES):
The Honorable (full name of Congressperson)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Representative (last name of Congressman):
As a constituent and scientist, I write to thank you for your support of the Department of Interior's sole science agency, the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Past report language in both Senate and House bills demonstrate that Congress understands the critical role this agency plays, one that can not be duplicated by the private sector.
I am, however, disappointed that the agency continues to lose ground as its overall funding support has been essentially flat for the last decade. In addition, the decline in USGS biological research programs is worrisome as these programs provide knowledge about national resource issues such as the potential impact of climate change on our natural resources.
The USGS needs a $1.2 billion budget for fiscal year 2008 and at least $200 million for programs of the Biological Resources Discipline. The agency provides independent research, data, and assessments needed by public and private sector decision-makers. Through offices and science centers located in every state and partnerships with some 2,000 state, federal, local, tribal, and private organizations, USGS is able to leverage additional research expertise. For example, (INSERT INFORMATION ON POSITIVE USGS PRESENCE IN YOUR STATE OR AT YOUR INSTITUTION).
I strongly hope that, beginning with fiscal year 2008, the flat trend for USGS can begin to be positively addressed.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
(your name and home mailing address)
