Sample Letter for Your Representatives

If you need a draft of baseline language for a communication to your local representative, please consider using some of this language.

---

Dear Supervisor [name]:

I appreciate your decisive vote in favor of the motion to preserve a portion of Lake Accotink. This pivotal decision ensures the continued existence of a cherished Fairfax County treasure, providing invaluable access to open water for underserved communities, families, individuals, and those with mobility impairments. If you have ever been to the Lake on the weekends during any season, you will have seen groups from local communities, several families enjoying a picnic, and groups of happy children playing by the Lake.

Lake Accotink stands as a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife, from nesting bald eagles to egrets, herons, various ducks, deer, turtles, foxes, fish, and other aquatic life. I am pleased that the Lake will be preserved, recognizing its ecological significance. However, to ensure a holistic and sustainable approach, I respectfully urge you and fellow board members to direct DPWES and FCPA to collaborate with Virginia DEQ in developing a realistic plan for the dewatering and transporting of spoils for disposal.

While the Task Force Findings Report suggested economic feasibility for dredging at the Lake’s current size, it’s imperative to acknowledge the potential limitations of on-site disposal for dredged materials, particularly with successive maintenance cycles. Therefore, I strongly recommend instructing responsible agencies, with public input, to reevaluate all possible dewatering sites, including those outlined in the Task Force findings, aiming to alleviate community objections to previous proposals.

Recognizing the critical role Lake Accotink plays in sediment trapping and its impact on the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), maintaining its capacity is paramount. Fairfax County has a unique opportunity to set a nationwide precedent by implementing the updated Waters of the United States (WOTUS) regulations, which will likely impact Lake Accotink’s dredging.

I strongly advise the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to direct DPWES, FCPA, and other relevant County entities to engage with federal environmental authorities (EPA and USACE). This collaboration will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of how the updated WOTUS regulations specifically apply to Lake Accotink. Interagency cooperation will allow for the formulation of a dredging plan that aligns with the revised regulatory framework.

I commend your commitment to community engagement and eagerly anticipate further details on the proposed coordinator and group membership. Given the Lake’s rapid sedimentation and shallow depth, fast action in initiating bid solicitation, obtaining required permits, and awarding contracts is imperative.

I strongly urge the County to proceed swiftly to restore critical functions to Lake Accotink.

Thank you for your dedication to preserving our community’s natural treasures.

Sincerely.
[your name]