Rep. John T. Doolittle (R-CA) mailed a letter asking for suggestions for steps that "a new president can enact immediately upon taking office to go on the offensive against the extreme environmentalists." According to the letter, Doolittle's goal is not only to fight environmental and protections, but to "force [those who support human health and environmental protections] to spend money and resources, weakening their influence." Dear Friend: When I speak before or meet with Americans concerned by the extremism of the so-called environmentalist movement, I often find myself counseling only defensive action. But rather than complaining and beating back Clinton Administration proposals, we may soon have the chance to take the initiative with a new Republican president. I would like to assemble a list of Executive Orders and rule changes that a new president can enact immediately upon taking office to go on the offensive against the extreme environmentalists. The real changes enacted by a new administration occur in the first year or so. Buy putting together a master plan now, we can ensure that this tremendous opportunity is not wasted. To make this plan as comprehensive as possible, I'm soliciting input from policy experts and people on the ground who are affected by current federal policies. The reach of the environmentalist agenda within the federal government is so expansive that I simply don't know all the needs to be corrected. I need your help. What I'm looking to do is not merely reverse the damage done but to enable the executive branch to work its will to counter that entire movement and undercut their sources of power. We must force them to spend money and resources, weakening their influence. Further, we should promote our own vision of proper stewardship of God's green earth. I'm including issues related to forests, grazing, water, air, endangered species, minerals, energy, and "livability." Free-market environmental ideas are especially welcome. For instance, one thing I'd like to do is repeal the postcard appeal system whereby a single Luddite living in her tree can appeal an entire forest plan. And the rule needs to be reversed that gives environmentalists reimbursement of their legal fees, but leaves productive businesses to pay their own fees for defending against harassing and ridiculous claims. Here's another possibility: a story was in the papers a couple weeks ago detailing how the EPA funds several anti-highway groups to convince Americans not to use their automobiles. Similar cases abound. We need to cut off this taxpayer financed propoganda. We must prevent Washington's entanglement in local affairs under the pretense of the livable communities initiative. We might think of turning forest management over to the states. Be creative, and think offensively. If you need some structure, try to think of the top ten Executive Orders or rule changes you would like to see enacted. And, what are the top ten specific problems you face from this Administration on environmental issues? Focus on what a president can do on his own through his administration. Please do not include statutory changes and other items that require congressional action. That is a separate task to be conducted through the traditional legislative process. This master plan, which we'll work on together, will be presented to the next president for his action. I am calling this "Project Evergreen." Please respond with your suggestions via mail at the address below or via e-mail at project.evergreen@mail.house.gov. John Willis of my Washington, D.C., staff will be managing this project, so please direct calls to his attention at 202-255-2511. The address to send written materials is: Office of Rep. John T. Doolittle ATTN: Project Evergreen 1526 Longworth Building Washington, DC 20515-0504 Let me thank you in advance for your help on this important project. Sincerely, JOHN T. DOOLITTLE United States Representative JTD:jw