Dear Lovers of the Basin,
Though I am the Development Director of Atchafalaya Basinkeeper, this letter is personal.

I have been in my current position for 4 years. There is a job that I am required to do, with a description. That job does not require me to spend more than 40 hrs per week, yet I do because this is not just about the job for me.

Last night, at the LDEQ public hearing for the East Grand Lake Project permit, I learned some things that I would like to share with you.

First and foremost, you showed me that I am not alone!! You showed me that you not only care, You, not being paid, showed up and/or signed the petition opposing this project. You have not been persuaded by opinion, you are persuaded by truth. So many of you have looked at the documents, read reports, and have come to your conclusions of right and wrong for your families, communities and future generations.

Second, not everyone feels freedom to publicly oppose projects like this. I personally have spoken to many people, that if they speak out against this project, they may have substantial risk. (people that have a dependance on promoters of the project). Promoters of this project could be their landlord, boss, contribute to their financial well being, or there may be costs to their position in the community. I am filled with empathy and understanding.

Third, there are multiple reasons why you care about the Basin. I heard, livelihood, environment, species, water, recreation, memories, impacts to community and the globe, and flood protection. People from all walks of life, culture, political differences, ALL together for the future of the Atchafalaya Basin! We may not have the same reason, yet we have the same goal!

Finally, my job description includes fundraising and membership growth. Outside of my job duties, I personally ask you to become a member of ABK. I have learned that to continue this work, it does require membership/donations and funding. I am not asking out of personal gain, I am asking from my love for people and for the Basin and seeing first hand the difference that is accomplished through funding and membership. I saw last night, the legal team and the hard work it took to communicate through legal channels to get the LDEQ to agree to the public hearing, the hours/days/weeks/months of work put into all of the legal work, and bringing awareness to the community and others that care. Becoming a member/donating to ABK ensures the continued work in and for the Atchafalaya Basin that you and I both care for.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your heart for the Atchafalaya Basin. It is truly an honor to work for you!

Monica Fisher