How to Use This Template

Public comments are a powerful tool to influence permit decisions. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and other agencies are required to consider public input. Use the letter below as a starting point. Fill in the bracketed information, add your own concerns, and submit it before the deadline.

Tips: Be specific about the permit, cite any environmental concerns, and be polite but firm. Personal stories about how the project would affect you or your community are especially effective.

Comment Letter Template

Click the button to copy the text, then paste it into an email or document. Customize the fields in brackets [ ] with your details.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, MT ZIP] [Your Email] [Date] [Permitting Agency] [Address] [City, State ZIP] RE: [Permit Name/Number, e.g., “Water Discharge Permit #12345”] Dear [Agency Representative or “Comments Administrator”], I am writing to comment on the above‑referenced permit application. I am a resident of [city/neighborhood] and have a strong interest in protecting Montana’s environment for current and future generations. I am concerned about the following potential impacts of this project: - [List specific issues, e.g., water use, air emissions, wildlife habitat, noise, etc.] - [Add details, e.g., “The proposed water withdrawal would lower the flow of [river/stream] during critical fish spawning season.”] - [Include any personal experiences: “I fish/swim/drink water from this area, and I am worried about …”] I believe that [describe what you want the agency to do, e.g., “the permit should be denied” or “additional conditions should be added”]. Specifically, I ask that the agency: 1. [Require independent environmental monitoring] 2. [Hold a public hearing before approval] 3. [Ensure full compliance with Montana water quality standards] Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Please include my remarks in the official record. Sincerely, [Your Name]

After copying, replace all [bracketed text] with your information and submit via email or the agency’s online portal. Keep a copy for your records.

Where to Send Comments

  • Montana DEQ: deq.mt.gov/public/notices – find the permit and submit online.
  • County or local agency: For local permits, find contact info on the county website.

If you need help finding the right place to comment, contact our environmental justice team.

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