The objective was to reach larger audiences with timely and pertinent environmental horticulture and other Extension programming information while maximizing utilization of limited resources.The purpose of this work was to identify and utilize an inexpensive mass media resource affording us the opportunity to provide University of Florida/IFAS research-based information to multi-county residents. Materials and MethodsBy partnering with a local area radio station (WTIS 1110 AM) that was interested inairing a weekly gardening program titled "Garden Talk," Extension agents were able to reach a significant number of people. Shows were pre-recorded, which took less time for agents, and listeners could tune in at their convenience. Pre-recording could becompleted at the Extension office or at the WTIS studio in St. Petersburg. Two 11-min "Garden Talk" program segments were recorded and covered a variety of topics, including making solar cookers, hurricane food supplies, holiday food safety, financial management, and Extension's 150th anniversary. Radio show, hosting guidelines and scripts were created that included an opening, going to break, in from break, and closing. Contact information was provided during each program, including telephone numbersand websites.
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