Statewide DNR Letter Guide
Who this is for:
You live anywhere in Michigan and want to emphasize the state’s responsibility to protect Watkins Lake State Park.
Why send your letter now:
Although the formal public comment period has not yet opened, this is a valuable opportunity to place concerns and unanswered questions into the public record early, before permit decisions are considered. We suggest sending letters by February 17th so agencies are aware of statewide concern as discussions continue.
Who to send it to
- To:
DNR Director Bowen <Bowens7@michigan.gov>
DNR Chief of Parks Kosich <DNR-ParksAndRecreation@Michigan.gov> - CC:
Governor Gretchen Whitmer <Gretchen.Whitmer@michigan.gov>
Norvell Township Clerk <clerk@norvelltwp-mi.gov>
Subject line (use one)
- “Concern About Proposed Mine Near Watkins Lake State Park”
- “State Responsibility to Protect Watkins Lake State Park”
How to write your letter
Your letter does not need to be long. Short letters still carry weight. 2-3 sentences or bullet points are enough. Including personal experience or expertise is welcome but not required.
1. Opening:
Say you’re a Michigan resident and why you care. Here are some examples:
- “I am a Michigan resident who values Watkins Lake State Park and is concerned about the proposed gravel mine nearby.”
- “As a Michigan resident and park user, I am concerned about the proposed mine next to Watkins Lake State Park.”
2. State the concern:
You might mention one or more of the following…
- Impacts on trails, wildlife viewing, and the experience of park visitors
- Potential impacts on wildlife and particularly migratory birds
- Potential impacts to groundwater and surface water, wildlife habitat, noise and dust levels, and long-term environmental conditions
You can say:
I understand that these impacts have not been adequately studied or answered in the mining application.
3. Make the ask:
Keep it simple and direct:
I urge the DNR to do its own study of these impacts on the park, as the State cannot adequately assess impacts to Watkins Lake State Park without answers to these unresolved questions.
4. Close:
- “Thank you for your attention to protecting Michigan’s state parks.”
Sign your name and include your city/town.
One last step (takes 10 seconds)
After you send your letter, please consider letting us know by filling out this quick form:
Thank you for taking a few minutes to stand up for Watkins Lake State Park. Acting now helps ensure that real-world impacts and unresolved questions are documented before officials are asked to approve or deny this proposal.
-Irish Hills Concerned Citizens (IHCC)