To: Dr.

William Conner

From: Joseph Kerby

Subject: Storm Mitigation and Wetland Conservation

To Dr. Conner,

My name is Joseph Kerby, and I am a fellow member of the South Atlantic chapter of the Society of Wetland
Scientists. I am emailing in regard to the issue of wetland prevention. I know that is a major point of your work at
the Society of Wetland Scientists and I would like some help implementing some new solutions. As a professor at
Clemson University, I believe you have the resources and mentorship to help me. My research has led me to believe
that wetland conservation is a big part of storm mitigation and that increasing awareness and pushing for change is
the best way to prevent future natural disasters from becoming worse.

Further details will be provided in a follow up memo, but the basic idea is provided here. Wetlands play a big role in
soaking up rain and preventing flooding, storm surges, and high winds from reaching further inland. Studies have
been done that show how integral wetlands are in the reduction of storm surges, the decrease of damage costs, and
the overall effectiveness of a community’s ability to deal with a storm. However, in order to reap these benefits,
current wetlands must be conserved.

This is where I need your help. The biggest thing in any environmental preservation is awareness of the people
creating laws to prevent degradation or damage. It’s the people making a stand and realizing how much harm
destroying environments really does. The SWS can help with that by providing the funding and voices needed to
make a difference. Apart from this, action can be taken to purchase land or even restore and create new swamps. All
of this information is outlined in the memo to follow, and I urge you to consider helping.

If you would please take a moment of your time so I can discuss this issue in more detail, I would greatly appreciate
it. I am currently free Monday – Friday from 5:00 – 9:00 pm and would love to meet. I look forward to hearing from
you soon. Thank you for your time and please respond with any questions.

Best Regards,

Joseph Kerby

South Atlantic Chapter

Society of Wetland Scientists
123 Address Rd. Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: 864-111-1111
Email: jmkerby@clemson.edu