Ohio Agriculture Conservation Initiative (OACI)
The Project
The Ohio Agriculture Conservation Initiative (OACI) is an unprecedented partnership between agriculture, conservation, environmental and research communities to recognize farmers for their dedication to utilize established methods to improve water quality in Ohio and to increase the number of best management practices being implemented on farms.
Inspire worked with OACI partners and Ohio Governor DeWine’s office to announce the framework for a new public-private partnership with the Administration’s H2Ohio initiative, which is a comprehensive, data-driven approach to ensuring safe, clean water for all Ohioans.
The H2Ohio plan will invest substantially to help farmers reduce phosphorus runoff from commercial fertilizer and manure to prevent harmful algal blooms. OACI will work with the H2Ohio program to ensure funds get to farmers who demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement through implementation of science-based practices on their farms.
Inspire worked with OACI partners on a comprehensive media strategy and communications plan to announce support for the H2Ohio program and to introduce a new OACI farmer certification program, including:
- Drafted messaging and talking points for key spokespersons and farmers
- Developed and coordinated quotes of support from several OACI members to include in the Governor’s office communications
- Created media statements, media advisory/interview opportunity and news release for OACI leaders
- Coordinated media briefing call with Ohio Statehouse and agriculture media reporters
- Created new section on the website to house media materials and coverage
- Drafted farmer communication materials and templates, including newsletter articles, talking points, social media posts, FAQ, etc.
The Results
- More than 100 articles mentioned the H2Ohio announcement and OACI’s role reaching a potential audience of 5.5 million.
- Top publications included Cleveland.com, Ohio Public Radio, Ohio’s Country Journal, Toledo Blade, Feedstuffs and more.
- The farmer communications materials reached more than 43,000 members through electronic newsletters and more than 420,000 farmers and consumers through social media outreach.
- The OhioACI.org website traffic doubled from the month prior.
- Following the announcement, more than 2,000 Ohio farmers applied to participate in the certification program.