Forest Preserve's 'Don't Be A Jerk' Campaign Takes To The Water

The Forest Preserve District of Will County released its fourth and final video in the "Don't Be A Jerk" campaign recently, this one targeting fishing and boating misbehavior.

The "Fishing & Boating Edition" video shows a "jerk" fishing where it is prohibited, littering, operating his boat in an unsafe and rude manner and ignoring angler etiquette.

Three previous "Don't Be A Jerk" videos featured jerk dog owners who make no attempt to follow basic rules, those who litter and dump disgusting amounts of trash in the preserves, and trail hogs who are completely oblivious to others trying to share the trail.

"We're taking a creative approach to an ongoing problem," said Ralph Schultz, the Forest Preserve's chief operating officer. "This marketing strategy is designed to be responsive to those concerns expressed by the public."

The campaign also is designed to protect wildlife that can be harmed by improperly disposed of cigarette butts, fishing line and other refuse.

The over-the-top videos use humor and simple messages to educate and encourage positive behavior for the benefit of everyone out in the preserves.

Most people do the right thing, said Laura Kiran, the Forest Preserve's director of Marketing and Communications.

"They can read the signs and social media posts and watch the videos, and know that they are doing their part," she explained. "For those who aren't behaving as they should, we hope this will serve as a bold reminder. Everyone needs to pitch in to ensure the preserves remain places where wildlife can thrive and where people will want to continue to visit."

THE VIDEOS

Four videos were produced in an effort to educate and inspire visitors to be respectful of nature and other preserve patrons. The videos in an exaggerated way illustrate what not to do and feature information on:

• Reining in your dog: The first in the series, this video focuses on keeping your dog on a leash and under control as well as picking up its poop.
• How to dispose of garbage: This video shows viewers the proper way to throw away their trash. Garbage goes inside the can, not on top of, not tossed within 20 feet of the can or even worse, just tossed in the preserve.
• How to use a trail: This third video reminds trail users to be respectful of others and don't hog the trail. Know the trails have multiple uses and users. Walk/run/bike on the right, pass on the left. And definitely don't lay across a trail around a blind curve while taking a family photo.
• Fishing and boating: All anglers should properly dispose of fishing line, hooks, etc. to prevent harm and potentially death to wildlife, and be considerate of other anglers. Don't bogart the beach with your boat, ignore fishing regulations, and don't crowd other fishermen.

EYE-CATCHING SIGNS

Signs also are posted in the preserves and feature photos of cute animals and clear messages, including:

• Raccoon: Don't be a litter bug. This is my home. Protect wildlife by recycling, reusing or disposing of your trash in a garbage bin.
• Bird with a cigarette butt in its mouth: Cigarettes kill wildlife. Cigarette butts leach toxic chemicals that pollute the environment and harm wildlife. Do not throw your cigarette butts on the ground. Dispose of them in a proper receptacle.
• Pig: Don't be a trail hog. Share the trails. Respect other trail users and keep everyone safe by staying to the right and passing on the left. Travel at safe speeds and be aware of your surroundings.
• Dachshund: Don't be a wiener. Keep your dog on a leash and pick up its poop. Dog feces can be harmful to the environment and to people. Dispose of dog waste properly. Dogs also must be leashed on the trail for their safety.
• Pelican: Don't be trashy. Fishing line kills wildlife. Getting entangled in fishing line can be deadly for animals. Always cut fishing line into pieces less than 6 inches long and dispose of it in covered containers.

For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.