Urge DC Council: "Don't Cut DC's Green Future!"

The proposed FY26 DC budget threatens to undermine decades of progress by making dramatic cuts to programs that protect our environment, support public health, teach environmental literacy, and build climate resilience. Complete the form below and tell the DC Council to restore funding to critical programs.

First Name:

Last Name:

Email:

Street Address:

City:

State

Zip

Your Ward & Councilmember:

Write a brief, personal message to your councilmember and At-large members below. Your message will be inserted into your letter (see below).

You can share your love for DC's green spaces, mention your favorite park, explain the importance of environmental education in our schools, share a story from a tree planting event, river clean up, nature tour, or class.

Preview of your message (information in brackets will be merged with your information when sent):

Dear Councilmember {Name/s},

I am writing to express my deep concern about the cuts being made to the DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) and vital environmental programs in the FY26 budget. These reductions threaten the health of our environment, the quality of our green spaces, and the future of environmental education in our city.

{Your personal message inserted here}

The proposed budget eliminates local funding for the “Nature Near Schools” program—leaving thousands of students without critical environmental learning experiences. It also cuts support for green infrastructure, stormwater management, and community projects that keep our neighborhoods clean, resilient, and sustainable.

Furthermore, the FY26 proposes to lapse funding for the Anacostia River Clean Up and Protection Fund (i.e. the Bag Fund), and the Tree Fund. These funds are intended to restore our waterways and forests. When these funds are redirected for use elsewhere, not only is a promise broken to constituents, but the investment in green infrastructure goes unrealized. Trees are left unplanted, trash is left in our rivers, and our communities are left vulnerable.

Protecting our environment, air, and water is paramount. The investments we make today will pay dividends in public health, community, and climate resilience for generations to come.

Without action now, we risk losing the progress we’ve made and leaving future generations with a less healthy, less resilient city.

I urge you to restore funding for DOEE and its programs that support environmental education, green infrastructure, tree canopy, and community health. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to a greener, healthier, and more equitable DC.

Sincerely,

{Your First & Last Name}
{Email}
{Address}

Click Submit below to send this message to your DC Councilmember and all At-Large Councilmembers. A copy of your message will also be sent to the email you have provided. Thank you for supporting our students, trees, green spaces, and communities!

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