Replying to POW action letter

[if !supportEmptyParas] StartFragment Dear Senator,

I live in the mountains.  I breathe the mountain air.  I depend on the snow and the winter season for my livelihood.  And if winter was gone, I don’t what path I would follow.  My way of life would fade into memory. I am just one of many who depend on the winter season for health and happiness.  According to a 2006 study, snow-based recreation in the United States was estimated to contribute an estimated $66 billion annually to the US economy and support approximately 556,000 jobs.  Almost everyone close to me lives a life that revolves around the winter season. I grow more concerned over the issue of Climate Change the more I see its impact on our snow and seasons.  I have not lived very long, but the changes I see wake something inside me: fear, fear and motivation to quit being a part of the problem and start being part of the solution. I have had a negative impact on our environment, more so than most.  I have used snowmobiles to get to skiing terrain, taken snow-cats to access endless powder, and ridden in helicopters to the top of untouched peaks in Alaska.  And all of this has helped me in skiing.  But I am starting to feel a little less blinded by goals of success and immediate pleasure.  I will always ski, but I will not rely on polluting machines to do it.  I will continue to enjoy the mountains, but I will have less of an environmental impact by hiking and respecting the mountains. I’m asking that you help protect our way of life, not only for the many people who depend on the balance of nature for their way of life, but also for our Mother Nature and the many souls of the earth that she protects, not just in the mountains, but everywhere. Thank you. EndFragment