Workshops planned in Halsey, Lewellen and Cozad will help bring up-to-date information about Nebraska’s unique byways attractions to potential visitors, said Connie Francis, University of Nebraska–Lincoln extension educator.

The “Podcasting Along Nebraska Byways” workshops are specifically targeted to those involved in promoting the nine Nebraska scenic byways. They will give participants an opportunity to create and publish their own podcasts for use on byway Websites or by businesses along the byway to promote their region. Workshop dates and locations follow:

Tues., Feb. 9, 2010, Nebraska State 4-H Camp, Halsey

Thurs., Feb. 11, 2010,The Most Unlikely Place, Lewellen

Mon., March 8, 2010, Cozad Public Library, Cozad

Each workshop will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. local time. The classes will include creating an outline, writing the narrative and producing and publishing a podcast episode. Registration is limited to ten participants at each location, so register early.

Cost of the class is $65 for early registration, paid by Jan. 26, or Feb. 22 for the Cozad class. Standard registration is $75 to be paid by Feb. 2, March 1 for the Cozad class. Cost includes materials and lunch. Register online at http://cariregistration.unl.edu. To register by phone, contact the UNL Center for Applied Rural Innovation at (800) 328-2851. Information about what to bring will be provided upon registration.

Podcasting is a great way to promote tourism, travel, recreation, historic sites and other activities. Many communities and regions are creating podcasts to guide downtown walking tours and driving tours of their historical areas. Having creative content and good-quality photos are keys to producing an effective podcast. It can be a fun and effective way to promote Nebraska’s scenic byways.