11-06-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Existing natural trails Main entrance to the existing Nature Center building The existing sign at the Nature Center's main entrance MARKETING AND PROMOTION Existing Conditions Marketing and advertising for Wargo Nature Center is currently handled by the Anoka County Parks and Recreation Department in coordination with the County's Public Information Office. Primary marketing activities include: • Monthly internal Anoka County Parks Marketing &Visitor Services meetings • Distribution of three program brochures annually, mailed to all vehicle permit holders and recent program participants • These brochures cover activities held during the summer, fall/winter, and winter/spring • Approximately 6,000 copies are distributed • A dedicated webpage for Wargo Nature Center and its programs within the Anoka County website • Social Media: including Facebook, Twitter, Constant Contact, and Instagram • Staff participation in cooperative meetings with municipalities, school districts, and other potential partner organizations in order to promote activities, provide efficient use of resources, and collaborate to develop services • Programs and events advertised at electronic message/display boards within the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park, Bunker Hills Regional Park, Licensing Centers, and Government Center The oversight of the County Public Information Office of the Nature Center's marketing materials results in the distribution of content that is county -approved, and very attractive graphically. The downside of this arrangement, however, is the lack of control it allows nature center staff on a day to day basis Needs Developing tools that allow the nature center and recreation staff to better coordinate needs with the Public Information Office and allows for more flexibility in spreading the word about specific programs and events would be beneficial. Needed staff actions and tools include: • Email distribution of announcements regarding specific upcoming programs and events • Email distribution lists of previous and potential visitors, including a general list and more specific, targeted groups such as adults interested in natural living courses, or homeschool families and groups • Expanding social media presence to include Twitter, Instagram, and others as they arise • More video offerings accessible via the web • Working with other nature centers and groups to cross market • Increased communication between programming staff and the County's Public Information Office 18 Chapter 3: Existing Conditions & Needs