ABSTRACT
It may not seem very important, I know, but it is, and that’s why I’m bothering telling
you so.
Dr. Seuss
It is important to distinguish the reporting of risk assessment results from communicating
risks. Reporting ecological risks involves creating a document that will support the decision-
making process by providing information for cost-benefit analysts or decision analysts, by
informing the decision makers, by informing stakeholders such as manufacturers and respon-
sible parties, and by serving as a basis for defense of the decision should it be challenged in
court or sent for review to the National Research Council or similar body. Communicating
ecological risk is a process in which risk assessors personally convey their findings to decision
makers and stakeholders. Risk communication may also include written products, but they
should be short statements (e.g., a one-page fact sheet) to prepare the audience or for the
audience members to take away as a reminder of the message. Risk reporting and commu-
nication are similar in the need to convey results clearly to the intended audiences. However, a
report must meet the needs of all likely audiences, while oral communication should be
tailored to specific audiences.
