Creating a Packet of Information for your Elected Officials

A brief packet of information about your watershed organization should be presented to your elected official or staff towards the end of your meeting. Following is a list of suggested information to include in your packet:

• History and background information
  Many elected officials are unfamiliar with watershed organizations and the role they play in restoring watershed health. Some background material will help them understand watershed organizations in general, and your local watershed situation in particular.
• List of watershed organization members and their affiliations
  The diverse nature of your membership will appeal to elected officials, who are always looking for ways to bridge diverse points of view. In addition, if they see a group or person they know on the list, it will help them establish rapport with your organization.
• Brief summary of accomplishments
  This is important for establishing your credibility and for educating the elected official as to what your organization does. It will also be something your elected official can be proud of and talk about. (Elected officials are like grandparents. They love to brag about what's happening in their district).
• Latest copy of a newsletter
  The newsletter, along with the brochure and several newspaper articles listed next, help establish credibility and illustrate what your organization does.
• Watershed organization brochure
• 2 –3 Recent Newspaper Articles
• Schedule and location of watershed organization meetings
  Mention that meetings are always open and the elected official is always welcome to attend.
• Watershed contact information (your business card)
  Encourage the elected official to contact you if he/she has questions about fish or watershed health issues.