Risk and Crisis Communications for Flood Readiness
Participants in the Risk and Crisis Communication for Flood Readiness Training in Kingston on June 16.
On June 16 and 17, the Hudson Valley Flood Resilience Network hosted two one-day trainings on Risk and Crisis Communications for Flood Readiness in Kingston (in partnership with Ulster County Department of Emergency Services) and Pomona (in partnership with Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services). The training covered techniques in risk and crisis communication, strategies for communicating in a crisis, knowing your audience, message design, establishing partnerships, and controlling misinformation.
The training was led by Dr. Danielle Eiseman of Cornell University, a risk communication researcher, and included a mix of presentations, activities, and tabletop exercises to practice the skills learned. Dr. Eiseman specifically designed the training for representatives of municipalities that are tasked with making complex decisions around communication in the days leading up to, during, and after a major flood event or natural disaster.
100% of participants agreed that attending the training was a good use of their time, with one attendee noting: "I wish more of my colleagues were here. This was SO good! I... want everyone to take this course."
This program was a partnership between New York Sea Grant, Cornell Health Impacts Core, Ulster County Department of Emergency Services and Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services, and sponsored by the NYS DEC Hudson River Estuary Program and the NYS Water Resources Institute at Cornell University, and funded by the NYS Environmental Protection Fund.
Participants in the Risk and Crisis Communication for Flood Readiness Training in Pomona on June 17.
The Hudson Valley Flood Resilience Network connects local governments committed to taking actionable steps to manage current and future flood risks. The Flood Resilience Network is co-facilitated by New York Sea Grant and the Hudson River Watershed Alliance.
Hudson Valley Flood Resilience Network programs and trainings are open to Members and Partners. Members are representatives from municipal and county governments in the Hudson River estuary watershed. This includes elected and appointed officials, staff, and volunteers. Partners are staff from agencies, regional organizations, or private-sector consulting firms working in the Hudson River estuary watershed that support Members’ flood resilience goals.
To join the Network and gain access to upcoming programs, visit https://www.hvfloodresiliencenetwork.org/join and complete the Member or Partner form based on your role. The Network is free to join.