An Evolution of Outreach in the Grand River Watershed

Session: 41b. - Great Lakes Harmful Algal Blooms Research from Watershed Influence to Ecosystem Effects

Louise Heyming, Grand River Conservation Authority, [email protected]

Abstract

The Grand River Conservation Authority has a long history of working with the Agricultural community.  The current stewardship program, the Rural Water Quality Program has been in place since 1998.  This locally developed program, delivered on behalf of municipal funding partners,  provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and rural landowners undertaking projects to benefit water quality.   To date, over $17 million in grant has been provided to support more than 6000 voluntary projects on private land.  The majority of these projects address the movement of sediment and nutrients from the agricultural landscape.   As a voluntary program, extensive outreach is required to promote awareness and adoption of agri-environmental stewardship projects and practices.  Effective outreach requires flexibility and an understanding of what motivates landowners as well as the barriers they face.  Feedback through surveys of past program participants has helped to direct outreach activities and program updates.  Equally important to program success is the building and maintaining of positive relationships in the community.   As technology and environmental priorities evolve, our message and how we reach our audience continues to develop.  What has stayed the same is the desire for pertinent information to support the adoption of environmental stewardship projects and practices.

1. Keyword
outreach

2. Keyword
Lake Erie

3. Keyword
Grand River