Laserfiche WebLink
Elk River Public Works <br />2024 Emerald Ash Borer Communications and Social Media Plan <br />Information <br />The City of Elk River is facing the problem of around 1,000 trees infected and dying from Emerald <br />Ash Borer (EAB). The main purpose of this communication plan is to notify the public about this <br />issue, how they can act on it, and how the city plans to manage it. EAB is affecting both privately <br />owned trees and city -owned trees (public spaces, parks, ROWs). If the tree is touching the line <br />between city and private, then the city takes ownership. <br />Tactics <br />Our primary goal with this communication plan is to softly introduce the information to the public <br />that our city is struggling with EAB. <br />Our second goal is to educate the public on our plan and how they can act. <br />Tone: educational, helpful, slowing the spread, allowing science to catch up, positive <br />What are possible problems or concerns the public may have? <br />• Why is the city tearing down trees? Why can't they treat them? <br />• Why is the city messing with the tree on my property? <br />• How can the city help me identify and solve the EAB problem in my yard? <br />• What happens if I leave the EAB in my yard — will the city do anything about it? <br />Timeline <br />■ Initial information to the public this spring (April) <br />■ Open House in May <br />■ City Council adopts the management plan in June <br />■ City begins using management plan in the fall (September) <br />Information Still Needed <br />1. Content for the information needed on the webpage and socials/marketing. <br />2. Details on the Open House in May. <br />3. Confirmed photo examples for Klara to use in graphic design. <br />4. Specific areas in Elk River that can be photographed and referenced. <br />5. Information on the dates the City Council will discuss EAB. <br />Task Responsibilities <br />1. Public Works Staff — sharing information about EAB, fielding questions, and keeping <br />communications in the loop on the City Council's plan and process. <br />2. Starr Sorheim — managing communications plan and coordinating information. <br />Klara Porath — designing graphics and signage, printing, and managing social media while <br />Starr is on maternity leave. <br />Page 185 of 201 <br />