Communicating in a Crisis: Developing a Comprehensive Communications Plan for the State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Laurel Clarke (Grady M.A. student). “Communicating in a Crisis: Developing a Comprehensive Communications Plan for the State Botanical Garden of Georgia,” poster presentation accepted for American Public Gardens Association Conference, June 2-5, Denver.

Abstract: Over the last couple of years, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia at the University of Georgia has developed a comprehensive Communications Plan that provides policies and procedures for effective communication practices during daily activities under normal garden operations and during minor service disruptions. The plan's goals are to identify and list key stakeholders and define the circumstances for when stakeholders will be provided with information and channels for doing so; provide pre-established messaging appropriate for likely incidents; and provide garden stakeholders with consistent and relevant information regardless of operating conditions. Developing a strong Communications Plan allows the State Botanical Garden to protect itself against reputational and other crises, so the focus remains on its mission: to create and nurture an environment for learning, inspiration and engagement through horticulture, conservation, science-based programs and lasting partnerships.