Water

Skagit PUD: Customer Survey

Hybrid survey of Skagit residential customers to assess customer satisfaction with Skagit PUD drinking water services.

Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies (ACWA): Stormwater Behavior Research

Coordinating with 22 ACWA member utilities, DHM led a statewide stormwater public education effectiveness analysis. We compiled and analyzed local, state, and regional survey data with regard to public awareness and actions that contribute and combat stormwater pollution. The collective data was evaluated to help establish a baseline of the public understanding and reported behaviors typically associated with stormwater pollution contributions. The research validated and added context to existing information, especially as to how ACWA interacts with the public, were distributed to participating jurisdictions for their individual use, and informed a coordinated, long-term outreach plan.

Lake Oswego-Tigard Water Partnership: Communications Research

Multi-city telephone survey, focus group research and interviews with some 50 key stakeholders. Major topics included satisfaction of local drinking water, knowledge and opinion of regional water sources, awareness of local water issues, and opinions of the water partnership. Results of the opinion research informed the development of a strategic communications plan and messaging.

Clackamas County Water Environment Services (WES): System Update Survey

Telephone survey research with WES residential customers to assess their awareness and attitudes toward updating the sewer system in Clackamas County. Research findings helped service providers make critical decisions about improving the system and services to customers.

Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB): Water Reliability Initiative Research

Qualitative and quantitative research with EWEB residential water customers to assess their attitudes toward an additional source of water in Eugene to determine the effectiveness of our public awareness campaign and identify any new water reliability issues. Research findings assisted Barney & Worth in developing strategic communications to support EWEB’s emergency water supply program.

Capital Region Water (CRW): Communications Research

Research supporting a comprehensive communications plan for CRW, which provides water service to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Surveys were completed with customers and employees and the results were used to inform the creation of communication products, a community outreach program to increase stewardship of Capital Region Water’s infrastructure, and crisis communication protocols.

City of Portland Water Bureau: Regional Water Providers Consortium Survey

Survey to understand customers’ awareness and behaviors of water conservation and emergency preparedness, service satisfaction, and information sources.  The research continues to inform organization planning and communications.

Clean Water Services (CWS): Healthy Streams Plan

Survey and focus group research to assist Clean Water Services, which operates in Washington County, Oregon. The research helped CWS align scientific, public policy, and public opinion considerations as it moved forward with the Healthy Streams Plan, a multi-year effort to protect and improve water quality throughout the Tualatin Basin.

EarthFix: Environmental Research

A study of residents in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for EarthFix, a collaboration of public broadcasters in the Pacific Northwest. The research assessed public attitudes towards water quality on the fortieth anniversary of the Clean Water Act.

EcoTrust: Water Quality Study

Opinion research about water issues in Alaskan communities. The project included surveys of Alaska residents, followed by 23 in-depth interviews of tribal and municipal leaders throughout the state. Focal points of the research included perceptions and concerns about local waterways, awareness of water issues and resources, and interest in learning more about these topics through university-hosted workshops with residents from other communities.

National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA): Communications Research

In-depth interviews with stakeholder group representatives, member research, and consulting to assist NACWA with planning and communications. The research identified service and program improvements and positioned NACWA to better influence advocacy initiatives.

Regional Coalition for Clean Rivers and Streams: Campaign Research

Multi-part study to assess the public’s awareness of the impact individuals have on water quality, as well as their behaviors and motivations to change. Topics included sustainable lawn care practices, pet waste, car washing, and household cleaning products. Focus groups tested advertising and communications. The Coalition is a partnership of eight public agencies in the Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington metropolitan area.