2021 SageWest Communicators Workshop

Though we would have so loved to be in-person and out in the field, communication professionals in the SageWest network came together to “sharpen their saws” during a virtual workshop on March 3 & 4. The purpose of this workshop was to advance communications and encourage outreach activities that support collaboration within, and effective conservation efforts happening across the sagebrush ecosystem. To facilitate broad participation, there was no registration cost and we are providing the recordings, presentation slides, breakout group summaries, and other resources here for anyone to access.

Thanks so much for your partnership!

—Daly Edmunds, Hannah Nikonow, and the SageWest Technical Team

Did you miss the communicators workshop? Find the full agenda here.

The New Reality

This panel discussion explores how has the pandemic has impacted conservation communications in the West. Hear from multiple communications professionals on their lessons learned, challenges, successes, and pro tips. Speakers: Members of the SageWest Technical Team - Watch a recording of this panel here.

Polling Western Voters: Current Public Opinion

This presentation explores voter opinions gleaned from a bi-partisan effort across 8 states in the Rocky Mountain West. Find 11 years of data from this survey here. Speaker: Lori Weigel, New Bridge Strategy - Access a PDF of this presentation here. Watch a recording of this presentation here.

Sagebrush Conservation Networks

This presentation discusses 2019 survey-based research results on social network analysis to shed light on how organizations work through networks to advance their interests in sagebrush country. Speaker: Patrick Bixler, University of Texas at Austin - Access a PDF of this presentation here. Watch a recording of this presentation here.

Assessing the Impacts of Communications

This presentation speaks to how to assess your conservation impact as communicators, from start to finish. Speaker: Ashley Dayer, Virginia Tech - Access a PDF of this presentation here. Watch a recording of this presentation here.

Panel Discussion on Podcasting

This varied panel shares insights from podcasters that have produced audio content about the sagebrush ecosystem, discuss the value of this type of platform for communicating about conservation, share lessons learned, and how they operate their specific show. Speakers: Ashley Ahearn - Grouse, Hal Herring - Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ Podcast & Blast, and Jason Clay - CO Parks & Wildlife on Colorado Outdoors - Watch a recording of this panel here.

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Engaging More Diverse Audiences in Communications Regarding Sagebrush Country

Communication professionals strive to reach diverse audiences, though this isn’t always easy. Two speakers - from Spanish-speaking and Native/Indigenous backgrounds - help to improve understanding of their communities and respective interests and values.

Jason Baldes (Eastern Shoshone | National Wildlife Federation) - Access a PDF of this presentation here. Watch a recording of this presentation here.

Amy Dominguez (Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting & the Outdoors) - Access a PDF of this presentation here. Watch a recording of this presentation here.

Don’t miss this combo Q&A with Amy and Jason after their presentations.