In 1997 and 1998 several legal loopholes were created which allowed the destruction of vast tracks of Virginia's wetlands for development and sprawl. This wholesale filling, ditching and draining of wetland areas for development seriously threatens years of environmental work on Virginia's rivers and streams. Over 10,000 acres of Virginia wetlands either were destroyed or were scheduled to be destroyed under these ditching loopholes. Scientific estimates indicate that an additional 180,000- 411,000 acres of wetlands were in danger of being lost if legislators had not acted to close the loopholes!

Last year Virginia was rapidly approaching the unenviable ranking of # 1 in the U.S. for draining and destruction of our remaining wetlands. Fortunately thousands of Virginians responded by contacting their locally elected Delegate and Senator and a law was passed that might stop this destruction.

Find out your elected official's stance on the issue

Some legislators have indicated they would like to take another look at the law and possibly change it - even before the majority of it takes effect! Please take 3 minutes today to write a brief letter urging your State Delegate and Senator to support wetland conservation and to oppose any new attempts at weakening wetland protections. Feel free to use our sample letter to base your letter on or for speaking points.

You should also use this opportunity to thank them for their support during the 2000 Session or let them know you do not appreciate their opposition to wetland protection. Sample letter, key votes and addresses are attached.

Virginia cannot afford any further delay. With your participation in contacting our locally elected representatives we can make sure the Commonwealth honors its commitment to protect and restore Virginia's wetlands.

Please take time now to write your letter.

Thank you in advance for your help in this important effort.