Program Overview
Established in 2015, PASA emerged as a collaborative public awareness program designed to enhance and spread utility safety awareness among agricultural professionals nationwide. Its secret weapon? A unique and highly effective partnership with the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA). By working directly with extension professionals, PASA has significantly expanded its reach into rural communities, capitalizing on the trusted reputation that agricultural agents have cultivated with farmers and ranchers in their respective counties.
Public Awareness Program Enhancement: A Partnership That Works
The synergy between PASA and NACAA is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that is fundamentally changing communication between utility operators, farmers, and ranchers. With over 3,200 NACAA members covering nearly 3,000 counties across the U.S., these dedicated professionals educate farmers and ranchers on every aspect of their trade – from planting and pesticide safety to drain tiling and soil contouring. Farmers have long relied on the expertise and guidance of their local ag agents, and PASA strategically enlists their help to deliver essential safe digging messages. Each year, NACAA members engage in over 2 million interactions with farmers and ranchers, creating an unparalleled platform for PASA to establish an "army of experts" motivated to carry its crucial message to millions of our nation’s producers.
The Extension Agent Outreach Program: A Multi-Pronged Approach
PASA's commitment to regularly communicating with extension agents across the country is comprehensive. Understanding that NACAA members collectively interact with millions of farmers, agricultural professionals, and landowners annually, the PASA Program is designed to maximize engagement and education:
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Monthly Digital Newsletter: Educates ag agents and provides updates on available educational materials.
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Communications Hub: Offers a direct point of contact for agents to connect with local utility operators.
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NACAA Publication: Ensures exposure in NACAA’s widely read "The County Agent" magazine.
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NACAA Annual Meeting/Conference: PASA maintains a prominent booth, engages in sponsorships, and delivers educational presentations.
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Effectiveness Tracking: Provides operators with crucial documentation for their Public Awareness/Damage Prevention programs.
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PASA Farm & Ranch Excavation Safety Guide: A vital resource incorporating RP 1162 baseline messaging, this publication is sent to extension professionals nationwide, featuring articles and information specifically targeting farm and ranch professionals.
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Local Event Coordination: PASA actively works with local county agents and operators to facilitate speakers at regional, state, or local outreach events and meetings.
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Cost-Share Opportunities: PASA members benefit from opportunities to share costs for industry events throughout the year.
For information on becoming a PASA member, contact Whitney Price at Whitney@AligningChange.com.
Let's Grow Safely Together.
