Sample Comment Letter 1 – Basic Template
[Your Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]
[Date]
To: [Agency Name]
Re: Public Comment on [Permit/Application Number or Project Name]
Dear [Agency Contact Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am submitting comments regarding the [permit/application/project name] proposed by [company name]. I am concerned about the potential impacts of this project on my community, including:
- [Example: water quality in nearby streams and wells]
- [Example: air pollution and public health]
- [Example: subsidence or damage to local infrastructure]
I respectfully request that the agency:
- Ensure that all proposed mitigation measures are fully implemented and monitored.
- Require additional measures to protect local water and air quality.
- Take into account the cumulative impacts of coal mining in this region.
Thank you for considering my comments. I urge the agency to prioritize public health and environmental protection in reviewing this project.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Comment Letter 2 – Personal Impact Approach
[Your Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]
[Date]
To: [Agency Name]
Re: Public Comment on [Permit/Application Number or Project Name]
Dear [Agency Contact Name],
I live in [town/county], which is within the area that may be affected by the proposed [project/permit]. I am concerned that this project could negatively impact my community’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Specifically, I am worried about:
- Water contamination: Local streams and wells could be affected by runoff from mining operations. My household relies on [source of water] for drinking, bathing, and irrigation.
- Subsidence and property damage: Longwall mining could damage nearby homes, roads, and local infrastructure.
- Air quality and health: Dust and emissions could increase respiratory problems, particularly for children and older adults in our community.
I urge the agency to:
- Carefully review the permit with attention to these risks.
- Require the company to implement strict monitoring and mitigation measures.
- Engage the community throughout the process to ensure concerns are addressed.
Thank you for considering my input. I appreciate the agency’s efforts to involve the public in decisions that affect our communities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Comment Letter 3 – Technical/Policy-Focused Approach
[Your Name or Organization]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]
[Date]
To: [Agency Name]
Re: Public Comment on [Permit/Application Number or Project Name]
Dear [Agency Contact Name],
I am submitting this comment regarding the proposed [project/permit] by [company name]. My concern is that the project may not fully comply with the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) and other state or federal environmental regulations.
Key Issues:
- Subsidence and hydrological impacts: Longwall mining has the potential to cause ground subsidence, lowering the water table and disrupting streams and springs. The permit application lacks adequate mitigation measures for these impacts.
- Cumulative environmental effects: The permit does not fully account for the cumulative impacts of nearby mining operations, which could exacerbate risks to water quality, air quality, and ecosystems.
- Community engagement: The public notice period is short, and outreach to impacted residents has been insufficient. A meaningful public comment process is necessary for transparency and accountability.
Requested Actions:
- Require a detailed plan to monitor and mitigate subsidence and hydrological impacts.
- Evaluate cumulative environmental impacts across the region.
- Extend public comment opportunities and hold additional hearings accessible to affected communities.
Thank you for your consideration. Ensuring compliance with SMCRA and protecting public health and the environment is critical. I urge the agency to take these concerns seriously before issuing any permit.
Sincerely,
[Your Name or Organization]