Interactions with the local community in addition to RAB meetings.

[Michael Lambert <mlambrt@ksu.edu>]

At one of the former defense sites where the Great Plains - Rocky Mountain HSRC TOSC program is assisting the local Restoration Advisory Board, attendance has been dropping off over time at RAB meetings. In order to reach as many citizens as possible, for the past several years we have had a booth at the annual local county fair in addition to making presentations at RAB functions. At the fair we have a poster presentation on some aspect of the remediation effort, as well as handouts on topics related to the remediation. However, the most valuable thing about being at the fair in this isolated, rural area is simply having the opportunity to speak with numerous members of the local community who, for one reason or another, choose not to attend RAB meetings. We have also made presentations to science classes at the local high school. I would say that making an appearance at local functions unrelated to the RAB is an important compliment to attending RAB meetings, and I know that the co-chair of this particular RAB agrees with me. Also, such activities provide me with a better knowledge and understanding of the local community, which is located hundreds of miles from where I live and work.