Watchdog Workbook A Resource Guide for Citizens and Groups Concerned with Mining

Chapter 1: Strength in Numbers

Part I: Organizing the Community

..........Organizing Against Polluters

..........Dealing with Difficult Personalities in a Meeting

..........The Power that Drives Us: Volunteers

Part II: Reaching Beyond Your Group

..........Media Do's and Don'ts

..........Sample Press Release

Part III: Influencing Public Officials

..........How to Arrange a Meeting with Your Lawmaker

..........How to Write a (Good) Letter to Your Lawmaker

Chapter 2: Knowledge is Power

Part I: Homeowner Information

..........Important Things to Know and Do Before You are Undermined

..........Agreements and Waivers

..........Information on 1994 PA Act 54

Part II: Reviewing Mining Permits & Monitoring Active Mines

..........What to Look for in a Mining Permit Application

..........In-Depth Mining Permit Application Checklist

..........Mine Inspection and Monitoring Checklist

Chapter 3: Act Now!

Part I: Requesting Hearings and Filing Complaints

..........Sample Request for Public Hearing

..........A Guide to Participating in an Informal Public Conference

..........Guide for Filing a Citizen's Complaint

..........Citizen's Complaint Form

Appendix

..........Glossary

..........Group Contacts

..........Project Planning Worksheet

..........Volunteer Project Evaluation

..........Preferences for Volunteer Activities

List of Tables/Resources

..........How to Talk to Your Neighbors

..........The Seven C's of Effective Communication

..........Twelve Steps to Better Meetings

..........Thirteen Steps for Lobbying

..........Contact for State Environmental Agencies

..........Tips on Researching a Deed

..........Regulatory Agency Contacts

..........Newspaper Contacts for Letters to the Editor