October VMN CE Webinar: Heated Topics, Warm Approaches: Navigating Tough Conversations About Natural Resources

Date: October 7, 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Description: Learn practical, research-based communication strategies for navigating controversial natural resource conversations, from deer management to climate change to feral cats, with confidence. We will explore how "warmth," conveyed through active listening, empathy, curiosity, and open dialogue, can build trust, reduce defensiveness, and keep conversations productive, even when people disagree.

Presenter: Ginger Orton is an assistant professor and Extension specialist of natural resources science communication in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia. Her research and outreach focus on the adoption of climate-smart land management practices with an emphasis on audience analysis, evidence-based outreach, and fostering trust between scientists and decision makers.

Registration Note: We have a new registration system we are using for this session. You will register through our centralized Virginia Cooperative Extension registration. This will help streamline the documentation and reporting we do for program activities. When you complete registration, you will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link to join. Head over to the registration page to try it out!