Even if you don’t have any previous experience contacting the media, you can help spread word about the Great Backyard Bird Count. A timely announcement can reach thousands of people and convince them of the fun and value of participating in the GBBC. Your efforts can really help by making the GBBC a local story that the media may want to cover.

1. Gather a list of media contacts. Search the Internet or phone book for local newspapers, radio, and television stations. Try to find contact information for those who would be most interested in the story, such as local news editors, nature columnists, and the events calendar department. Many web sites have a “contact us” page with email addresses for submitting story ideas.

2. Send the GBBC press release to your contact list. The press release is available on the GBBC web site. You can print and mail the press release or send the link by email. Send it in January or early February to allow enough time.

3. Let reporters know if you are willing to share a few thoughts about your participation in the GBBC. They are more likely to be interested if they have a local participant to interview. (For tips, see our page on Frequently Asked Questions about the GBBC.)

Let us know if it would be all right for us to give your contact information to reporters who call us from your area. Write to Jennifer Smith at jls39@cornell.edu and include “GBBC Media” in the subject line. In the body of the message, write “Media OK” and include your town, county, state, phone number, and/or email so we may refer reporters to you.

Have you seen an article about the GBBC in your newspaper? We would love to receive a copy for our archives. Send clips to Jennifer Smith at Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, New York, 14850. Or email the URL to jls39@cornell.edu. (Be sure to write “GBBC” in the subject line.)

• View a sampling of media stories published about the 2009 GBBC.

 
Thank you! During a continentwide event such as the GBBC, it’s the voices of people like you from local communities that make all the difference.