A few points to consider when writing your letter:

• Begin the letter "Dear Editor:" so your correspondence can be correctly routed at the paper.

• Limit your letter to about three paragraphs-a total of 75 to 150 words is ideal.

• Let readers know in the first paragraph why you're writing the letter.

• Look for the opportunity to respond to something in the newspaper. It's not a requirement, but it increases the chance of publication and often offers fresh insight on the letter you'll write. The item responded to might be about a local open space, development plan, or policy decision-or it might be a national story or a feature item (e.g., people having fun outdoors).

• Tell readers why the open space issue is an important one for them and for the community. Readers will respond positively if they believe the issue will somehow affect them personally.

• Avoid using statistics unless you are sure of their accuracy. A personal anecdote showing how the issue affects you and others in your community is often more compelling than facts or figures.

• Always be sure to sign the letter and include your street address or email address and phone number. The newspaper may contact you to verify you as the signer of the letter.

• If possible, each letter should focus on a specific place, not just generic "open spaces." In your letter you can move from the specific place to the general issue, or vice versa, but it's powerful to include a geographic focus.