Hiker Lobby Day FAQs
WTA's annual Hiker Lobby Day is coming up February 1. It is critical that the hiking community comes out in force for Lobby Day. 
Meeting with your representatives can feel like quite an undertaking, but attending a Lobby Day is actually a fun and easy way to help protect the trails you love. In hopes of taking the mystery out of Lobby Day, here are answer some of the questions we get asked most often about these events.
How can a day of meetings be fun?
Amazingly, it is! This is a great chance to meet other hikers from across the state, do a little networking and perhaps get some trail recommendations. Plus you get to be an active part of the democratic process and maybe learn something new. Also it is a rare opportunity to see some of WTA's crew leaders all cleaned up.
Does it really matter if I meet with my representative? I can't make a difference.
Yes! It does matter. I have been doing policy and advocacy work both in DC and Olympia for several years and I can tell you that your voice matters. I know there is a lot of skepticism and belief that lawmakers only listen to big money but that simply isn't the case. Think of all the different issues your representatives are asked to vote on. There is no way they can be an expert on everything so often they rely on experts for various fields and the opinions of their constituents (that's you). I have known particular offices that have been swayed from neutral to a yes vote with as few as three meetings with constituents!
Do I have to meet with my representative by myself?
When I schedule meetings for Lobby Day, it is generally one meeting per office, so it would be you and anyone else who signed up for lobby day from your district. If you want to guarantee you have a buddy, ask your neighbor to sign up and join you in Olympia for the day. If you are the only one from your district you may have to attend the meeting alone but there will be several WTA staff members at the event and I am sure you could get one of them to join you.
I didn't vote for my representative, will they still listen to me?
Yes. If you live in their district then they work for you. But I probably wouldn't lead off with the fact that you didn't vote for them at your meeting.
Do I have to be an issue expert? I don't know anything about how the budget works.
No you don't have to be an expert. Jonathan, WTA's Advocacy Director, is down in Olympia several times a week during the legislative session talking to lawmakers and their staff about policy and budget specifics. But you can do something that Jonathan can't. You can put the personal touch on these issues for your representative and share your passion for trails with them.
Are most people who go to lobby day retired? I have to work that day.
We get a mix of hikers from all walks of life at lobby day. While some attendees are retired, others have chosen to take the day off work or school because they feel so strongly about keeping trails open. If you can't take the day off work, you can still voice your support for recreation funding by calling the legislative hotline at 1-800-562-6000.
What should I wear?
Professional work attire is appropriate. You want to make a good impression during your meetings, so dress in a manner that shows respect for the office. You don't need a three-piece suit; slacks and a nice shirt are fine. Also, there may be some walking involved, so wear comfortable, water-resistant shoes.
So how do I sign up?
I am so glad you asked. Sign up for WTA's Hiker Lobby here. Thanks for helping speak up for trails!
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