Engaging non-traditional partners : Bringing a water quality outreach component to urban gardens in Indianapolis

Recognizing an opportunity Green spaces are not only beneficial in helping to improve urban water quality – natural sounding boards for water quality and conservation issues. Community garden program already well- established in the Indianapolis area – Use the existing infrastructure to promote education/outreach

How to approach the idea… Contact Mayor’s Office Office of Sustainability Choose viable targets Seek resources from additional partners Install signs, rain barrels, etc. at target gardens Acknowledge partner involvement, reach out to public

Acknowledgement and Outreach Thanking partners – Value in partnerships – Open doors for the future Reaching Out – Publish/advertise partner efforts – Links and contact information for public – Influence

Write-ups Inform the public of our concerns and interests in starting this project. Enrich the outreach for an already-existing opportunity for communities. Featured in online blogs, newsletters, group websites, etc. – I.e. ISDA conservation blog, Spotlight on Stewardship, University Extensions

Write-ups continued. Future use have more opportunities – Expand public understanding- water’s vast integration – Reach wider audiences

Signage Allows recognition of the practice being implemented. Offers educational value to people that pass the practice. “I want one, too!” value

My edible garden utilizes water from my rain barrel! The average meal travels up to 1,500 miles before it gets to your plate. Not only am I reducing my need for store bought food, I am reducing my dependency on tap water. Rain barrels trap up to 1,300 gallons of water a year! I am saving money, miles, and gallons with my combined practices! Thanks to my local FFA chapter and the City of Indianapolis, I am helping to improve my local water quality. Visit (insert local information website here) for more information.