Work with your leadership team and membership to decide upon advocacy actions that make most sense for your group. While the legislative season in spring may the the busiest time of the year, try to keep engaged in advocacy activities year-round.
Each year, Parks & Trails Council identifies priorities to advocate for at the capitol—including grassroots initiatives, management needs, and smart policy. Contact friends@parksandtrails.org to learn how your group can sign a resolution in support of P&TC’s legislative agenda.
Also, when the application is open, let P&TC know if there is a specific project for which your friends group is seeking funding or support. Upon evaluation, P&TC may be able to work with you to garner support.
One great way to build awareness of your group and keep your projects moving forward is to gather support from your elected officials. While the tips below are geared toward state legislators, they can be adapted for mayors, city council members, and other elected officials.
Friends of Mill Towns Trail meet with Rep. Bly (DFL, Northfield)
A good way to build a relationship with your legislator is to personally meet with them. While scheduling a formal appointment to meet in their office at the capitol is a good idea, it is even better to meet them when they are home in the district—your opportunity for meaningful discussion is much better when they’re not busy with the legislative session. Many legislators host open houses in their home districts, so take advantage of that opportunity to connect.
You don’t have to be an expert, you just have to care. By calling your legislator, you can quickly weigh in on current legislation and ensure your voice is heard.
Well written letters are invaluable and quick. To be most effective letters should be brief (only one typed page). Include your name, postal address, and phone number.
As the digital version of letters, all rules and suggestions for letters apply. Keep the email short, less than 400 words, and make sure you clearly outline the issue and what impacts you may experience from certain decisions.
Cutting the ribbon on the new campground for Lake Vermilion State Park
When your legislator is at home in your district, invite them to come tour the park or trail you support. If there is a special event or activity, be sure they receive an invitation to join.
Find more tips from the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.
It is well known that the existence of parks and trails provides a plethora of benefits for us all. By sharing facts and statistics about the health, quality of life, environmental, and tourism benefits, you can strengthen support for your project. P&TC has developed a number of fact sheets describing these benefits.
Click on the posts below to learn about recent advocacy updates.
Parks & Trails Council has a whole section of their website dedicated to statewide advocacy for parks and trails. It includes a summary of issues, a bill tracker, research and reports, and other legislative resources.