SEAFWA 2018

AUTHORS: Adam Martin, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

ABSTRACT: Advances in communication have allowed an unprecedented level of connectivity throughout the developed world. Resource agencies now have the opportunity to interact with the public instantly, but very few are fully utilizing this powerful tool. Traditional forms of communication still have their place in fisheries management, however, if used correctly, digital communication could be the most useful management tool ever used by biologists. Far too often the work of resource agencies is seen as secretive because we do such a poor job of communicating with the public. Proper communication techniques can be used to eliminate conflicts quickly, while furthering the management goals of the agency. Invasive species can be an extremely controversial issue that often makes the public and the agency feel as though they are on opposite sides. We will present examples of how to engage the public on controversial issues such as invasive species in ways that encourage partnership and decrease conflicts. By presenting real world examples, we hope to show that digital communication can be a more powerful management tool than any traditional policy or regulation.