Make a Splash with Your Communications!

Calling all natural resource managers, water utility leaders, watershed organizations, waterkeepers, and land trusts!

The National Wildlife Federation and Water Words That Work, LLC will host a hands-on environmental communication workshop designed just for you in Austin on May 5th, 2010. The "Water Words That Work" workshop re-orients conservation professionals to the language that the public uses when they talk about nature protection and pollution control. Participants will learn to prepare written and spoken communications that connect with everyday citizens and motivate action on behalf of our rivers, forests, lakes, wetlands, and oceans.

Most environmental communications produce lip service to the environment, but some produce action. This workshop will synthesize the results of hundreds of opinion polls, focus groups, and social research studies that explore the distinction. Participants will learn a 4-step writing method for translating scientific background information into effective issue advocacy, fundraising, and behavior change materials. 

By applying the Water Words That Work method, attendees will develop the communications skills to succeed at:

• Environmental writing for citizens
• Planning social marketing campaigns
• Working with reporters
• Preparing websites and blogs
• Fundraising
• Speaking at public meetings and hearings
• Lobbying public officials