I-55 dust storm media relations update and internal communications support
It’s been a busy two weeks for Illinois Farm Bureau’s issue management team. Since the May 1 dust storm and crash along I-55, IFB has fielded multiple media requests and provided internal communications support. This update will provide insight into our process and how messaging developed over the last two weeks.
As reports of the dust storm and crash began to filter through on social media, IFB began monitoring social and news media for emerging narratives, comments, and themes. Starting May 1, IFB provided communications support to Sangamon and Montgomery County Farm Bureaus (CFBs) in responding to media requests. IFB quickly wrote and shared talking points and a holding statement to CFB managers. Talking points are now available on the Leaders’ Portal, IFB Weekly, or by request to IFB Media Relations Specialist Sierra Henry at shenry@ilfb.org.
IFB was already coordinating interviews with NBC Chicago 5 for a segment on climate change mitigation before the dust storm. Those interviews were conducted on May 10 and provided an opportunity to share information on agricultural conservation practices. Additionally, IFB is coordinating interviews with the Chicago Tribune for a follow-up article about the dust storm.
On May 3, IFB received a media request from a reporter with DTN/Progressive Farmer who wanted to speak with an attorney about whether farmers could be liable for the accident. IFB ultimately declined to comment on the legal matter with the intent to recommend the reporter reach out to a national expert attorney we have worked with in the past. By the time IFB provided the comment, the reporter had published the article and spoken with the sources we would have referred them to. The article is available here: Can a Farmer Be Held Liable if Blowing Dust From Their Field Causes a Highway Accident? (dtnpf.com).
IFB will continue monitoring the I-55 dust storm and conversations on agricultural conservation practices. To keep up with the latest news media coverage featuring IFB farm members, visit IFB’s “In the News’ webpage. It can be accessed under the “Resources” tab at www.ilfb.org. To check out the latest media coverage, visit: www.ilfb.org/in-the-news/.
For additional information or questions, please contact IFB Media Relations Specialist Sierra Henry at shenry@ilfb.org or Director of Issue Management DeAnne Bloomberg at dbloomberg@ilfb.org.