Conduct public outreach activities and provide educational material and training to citizens, businesses, and agricultural industries in the state of new jersey

This Cooperative Agreement award, valued at $200,000.00, was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025). The purpose of this award is to conduct public outreach and provide educational materials and training to citizens, businesses, and agricultural industries in the state of New Jersey.

The key activities to be performed under this award include digital media outreach through strategically placed online advertisements, the installation of digital roadside billboards throughout New Jersey, and the use of geofencing technology to deliver targeted messages. The expected deliverables are the creation of several digital and print documents to support the Spotted Lanternfly program, which aims to raise awareness and mitigate the impact of this invasive pest. The award period runs from May 7, 2025 to April 30, 2026.

Purpose

The purpose of this agreement is to conduct public outreach activities and provide educational material and training to citizens, businesses, and agricultural industries in the state of new jersey.

Activities

Digital media outreach - utilizing strategically placed advertisements in search engines, online news feeds and social media platforms to create greater awareness of spotted lantern flies and permit programs for transportation of goods. Last year, this part of the program had nearly a double click per advertisement percentage than the national average. Digital roadside billboards - billboards throughout new jersey. Boards will be purchased in high traffic areas and where the most awareness if needed. Geofencing -- the use of GPS or rfid technology to create a virtual geographic boundary, enabling software to trigger a response (MESSAGES) when a mobile device enters or leaves a particular area. Deliverables and expected outcomes: create several different digital and print documents in support of the spotted lanternfly program. These are targeted to industries impacted by the introduction of SLF. Work with a media consultant to create a more comprehensive program and incorporate newer technologies to reach the greatest number of people. Intended beneficiary(IES): the public in and around new jersey, recreational and nature enthusiasts, travelers crossing quarantine areas, tourists from outside the currently known SLF impacted areas, NJ business communities. Subrecipient activities, if known or specified at the time of award: N/a