Erosion Control
is the premier journal for erosion and sediment control professionals.
The official journal of the International
Erosion Control Association since 1994, it is the most widely
read and highly respected magazine in its sector.
Our audience is composed
of planning, engineering, construction, development, operations, and
regulatory professionals employed in activities involving erosion
and/or sediment control. As the audience is made up entirely of working
professionals in the field, you should assume a high level of expertise
and familiarity with your subject matter.
The prevailing perspective
and the bulk of interviews, ascriptions, and quotes should belong
to direct participants in erosion or sediment control activities.
If you find yourself writing about nonparticipants, take another look
at the assignment and see if you're headed in the right direction
Think like your audience.
Put yourself in an erosion control professional's boots. What
makes this subject important enough that you would take time out from
your busy schedule to stop and read the article? Where's the hook?
How best to bait it, cast it, troll it, and sink it? When you've satisfied
yourself on those scores, you're ready to write.
Engage your reader.
Leave no doubt in anyone's mind who you are writing to and why it
is important. Rivet your full attention on your readers and drag them
into the middle of your subject, address them directly and personally.
Don't shy away from
technical aspects of your subject. Make your readers "reach,"
but never "write down" to them. Aim high in your expectations of the
reader's knowledge and expertise. Also assume that your readers appreciate
sound use of language or grammar. If the article is too simple or
basic, we can't use it.
Identify yourself as
a writer on assignment for Erosion Control and conduct yourself
and the interview in an open, friendly manner. Think about the
article's appearance as you conduct your interviews. How might graphics
underscore an important point? What may entice a browser to take the
plunge? Gather as much graphic material as possible (photos, charts,
illustrations, etc.). The more options our art director has, the better.
As far
as rules are concerned, follow the latest Chicago
Manual of Style. We have a set of conventions
of our own, however, we'll apply them as appropriate
leaving you to concentrate on more important matters.
