The media is our most powerful ally in getting the facts about farming and food production out to the public. If we work with the media properly we will be much more effective in getting our message out. If you are interviewed, your side of the story will be part of the news report. If you decline an interview, you lose the opportunity to get your story across.
Journalists have deadlines.
The media are generally more concerned with serving their audience than promoting any one interest. A journalist's boss is the editor or producer. They, not the journalist, usually decide what appears and how it appears. If possible, avoid doing an interview immediately. Returning the call or setting an appointment to do the interview, is the best strategy.