Public Relations Training for Environmental Professionals - Perfecting Environmental Communication with the Public, Press, and Industry in Seattle, Washington

This course has been indefinitely postponed for more information please e-mail iclausen@nwetc.org

Public Relations Training for Environmental Professionals –
Perfecting Environmental Communication with the Public, Press, and Industry
Course ID: OPR-201
April 6 - 7, 2010, 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
EOS Alliance (NWETC) Headquarters
650 South Orcas Street, Suite 220
Seattle, WA 98108
PHONE: (206) 762-1976 | FAX: (206) 762-1979

Instructor: Pamela Bennett

Register Online | Directions | Accommodations | Course Catalog | Course Brochure (PDF)

Description: A well-designed public relations program can supercharge your organization's image, reputation and success. During this intensive two day course, you will obtain a fundamental background on the key issues, concepts and practice of effective communications and media relations, with the focus on environmental projects. The course is designed to provide participants with an in-sight on fundamentals and practicalities behind public relations practice in the context of protocol functions and communications planning.

Course Topics:

Speaking for and about Environmental Issues and Risks

Defining Environmental Communication

Proactive Community Involvement
Reactive community Involvement

Communication and the Public Sphere

Citizens and Community Groups
Scientists/ Conservation Groups
Corporations and Lobbyists
Anti-Environmental Groups
Media and Environmental Journalism

Citizen Voices, Public Forums, and Conflict Resolution

Freedom of Information Act
Emergency Planning
Public Hearings and Testimonies
Risk Communication

New Model of Obtaining Public Input

Tools for a Proactive Communications/ PR Program

Communications Plan

Stakeholder Mapping and Relations
Employees
Media Relations and Effects
Government Events
Designating Spokesperson and Training
New letters, Brochures, and B-roll
Web Presence

Crisis Communications Plan

Crisis Team
Working with the Media
Emergency Messaging
Specific Crisis Plans
Media Call Policy
Crisis Drills
Order of Action
Potential Future Controversial Issues

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Use public relations tactics, strategies and approaches for environmental projects.
Build consensus among employees for a clearly defined mission.
Establish methods for open channels of communication.
Use newsletters, media publicity, and events to engage employees and the general public.

About the Instructors: Pamela Bennett has over 15 years of successful and diverse environmental management experience including design and implementation of a multiphase Public Relations Program with programs including Habitat for Humanity, Government affairs, Community Donations, and partnerships with local Chambers of Commerce. The National Portland Cement Association awarded the Public Relations Program their Stakeholder Outreach award and the Tulsa Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America honored the program with their annual award.

Intended Audience: This course is designed for senior and middle level managers with responsibility for the organization’s image. This includes Directors, Plant Managers, Production Managers, Environmental Managers, Health and Safety Managers, those with responsibility for company Public Relations goals, small business owners and other designees.

Course Materials: Participants will receive course proceedings, tutorials, and reference materials.

Continuing Education Units: 2.0

What to Bring: Pen or pencil, coffee mug, and a water bottle (to reduce waste). Please wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the prevailing weather. Coffee, tea and light snacks will be provided. We will be on our own for lunch.

Registration: $445/$345* for registrations received by March 5, 2010; $495/*$395 thereafter (* reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students; and AFS, NAEP, NEBC, NWAEP members). You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976.

Cancellation Policy: Registration fees are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to the event and 50 percent refundable (or 100% credit) thereafter up to 3 business days prior to the event. No refunds are issued for cancellations occurring less than 3 business days before the start day. Course registration fees and cancellation policy are subject to change without notice.

Disability Accommodations: To request disability accommodations, please contact us at info@nwetc.org or (206) 762-1976 at least 30 days prior to the event.