Write a Letter To the Editor

​The editorial page is one of the most important sections of any newspaper and provides an excellent forum for publicizing hiking and trail issues that are important to you. Here are some tips for writing a great Letter to the Editor that should help improve your chances of being published:

• Write your letter to connect with something timely: a recent article, editorial or current event. Respond to a specific newspaper article within 2 days of its publication.
• Keep your letter short and concise. Focus on only one issue and limit the number of points you make in support of it. A letter with less than 250 words and three to four paragraphs has a better chance of being printed.
• Show your personality. Be sure to use your own words (including “I” and “we”) and personal stories and experiences.
• Keep it local. Explain how the issue will affect the local area and the newspaper’s readership.
• Research the issue thoroughly and use statistics and facts to support your position.
• Give the readers a way to learn more or take action, if possible.
• If you want the public to contact specific elected officials, include their phone numbers or email addresses in the letter.
• Be aware that your letter may be edited for length and content. Check with your local newspaper for submission guidelines.
• Type your letter and send it via email or fax for quick delivery. Include your name, address and phone number so the newspaper can verify the letter’s author.
• Watch the editorial section of the newspaper for your letter. If it is not printed within a few days or in the next issue, call the editor’s office to politely inquire about your letter. They may be able to offer an explanation or other tips to help you the next time you submit a letter.

Please let the Keystone Trails Association know if your Letter to the Editor in support of the trail community is published! Email us with details.