Over the last 100 years, our water sources and delivery systems have evolved significantly. From tapping into nearby rivers and lakes to pumping local groundwater through wells, importing water, and purifying recycled water, our processes for delivering drinking water are continually changing. Along the way, public support is the key to moving projects forward and ensuring a reliable source of drinking water for future generations. However, with many opposed to change and the inevitable spread of misinformation, how do we combat negative perceptions and turn naysayers into advocates? The answer: effective public outreach and education campaigns for public works projects. During a dynamic panel discussion, representatives from two water agencies in San Diego County—Padre Dam Municipal Water District and the City of Oceanside’s Water Utilities Department—will discuss key strategies and tactics they have used to reach and educate target stakeholders and garner support for their projects over the last century. After this session, participants will be able to:
• Plan comprehensive, future-focused educational and engagement efforts by seeing the latest examples of tools, campaigns, and methods to track effectiveness.
• Determine how to combat negative perceptions and turn naysayers into advocates as more recycled water reuse programs are launched nationwide.
• Create effective, comprehensive public outreach campaigns for potentially controversial recycled water programs.

Contributor/Source

Melissa McChesney

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