Waterways Campaign Highlights Environmental & Economic Impacts

October 26, 2021

The Illinois Corn Marketing Board is proud to partner with the Waterways Council Inc, Illinois Soybean Association, and others to help audiences understand the importance of inland waterways and efficient infrastructure.
 

A new 30-second TV commercial is currently running in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, as well as a coordinated social media campaign with graphics and shorter, 15-second videos that describe environmental, economic, and quality of life themes about our waterways.

Our goal is to build awareness for a natural resource that many don’t notice or fully appreciate. As Congress considers an infrastructure bill, remembering that our inland waterway system needs investment is important. This campaign keeps the waterways noticeable and memorable.


“America’s Waterways” is the theme of WCI’s new TV spot being aired inside the Beltway that has garnered more than four million impressions since its initial airing.

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