AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Learning Farms (ILF) conservation webinar taking place Dec. 1 at noon CST will feature Dr. Laura Witzling, assistant professor in the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication at Iowa State University. Witzling conducts environmental communication research with an emphasis on watersheds and local food systems. Her expertise in bridging communications strategies and extension outreach activities will provide excellent guidance for agricultural and conservation educators.
In the webinar, “Extending Outreach Impacts through Virtual Events and Facebook Ads,” Witzling will highlight recent research outcomes from a survey of farmers regarding edge of field practices and the results of several social media tests. She will also discuss new approaches to outreach that incorporate virtual events and Facebook advertisements to elevate connectivity with farmers while capitalizing on the uptick in online comfort across all target audiences.
“We conducted the social media testing to help researchers and educators better understand how information and concepts can be reinforced or delivered through different communications channels such as Facebook,” said Witzling. “The pandemic has normalized participation in virtual events, creating new opportunities to engage farmers with relevant and useful information through multiple channels. My hope is that participants will come away with a better understanding of utilizing social media advertising as a viable and effective part of their outreach strategies.”
Participants in Iowa Learning Farms Conservation Webinars are encouraged to ask questions of the presenters. People from all backgrounds and areas of interest are encouraged to join.
Webinar Access Instructions
To participate in the live webinar, shortly before noon CST Dec. 1:
Click this URL, or type this web address into your internet browser: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/364284172
Or, go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID: 364 284 172
Or, join from a dial-in phone line:
Dial: +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923
Meeting ID: 364 284 172
The webinar will also be recorded and archived on the ILF website, so that it can be watched at any time. Archived webinars are available at: https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/page/webinars.
A Certified Crop Adviser board-approved continuing education unit (CEU) has been applied for. Those who participate in the live webinar are eligible. Information about how to apply to receive the credit will be provided at the end of the live webinar.
About Iowa Learning Farms:
Established in 2004, Iowa Learning Farms is building a Culture of Conservation by encouraging adoption of conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF team members are working together to identify and implement the best management practices that improve water quality and soil health while remaining profitable. Partners of Iowa Learning Farms include the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources, EPA Section 319 Grant Program and GROWMARK, Inc.
— Iowa Learning Farms