In 2007, the Common Ground Alliance (CGA), a member-driven association that promotes the safety of underground facilities, spearheaded the 811 National Awareness Campaign. 2017 marks the 10th anniversary of this important achievement for the underground damage prevention industry!

When 811 became the universal three-digit dial code for America’s one call centers, it set the stage for the creation of safe digging efforts that could be easily recognized by professional excavators and homeowners across the country. To assist stakeholders with the planning of 811 events and media material, the CGA created an online toolkit with approved logos, press release templates, and other materials.

In efforts to spread the 811 message, many states across the country participate in National Safe Digging Month (April) and 811 Day (August 11th) by issuing safe digging proclamations, hosting 811 block parties, and sponsoring 811 runs and public advertisement campaigns, among many other activities. The CGA hosts an annual Excavation Safety Conference and Expo, in addition to other regional or state-specific conferences and expos that educate stakeholders about protecting our underground infrastructure. The 811 National Awareness Campaign was unveiled at this conference in 2007 in Orlando. It is only fitting that ten years later, the CGA is hosting a special 10th anniversary celebration at the conference, held again in Orlando!

Whether you “click or call” before you dig, doing so is the easiest way to make sure you keep your communities safe and connected. Per the CGA Dirt Report, you have less than a 1% chance of striking a buried utility line if you file a locate request before doing any digging. If you are planning an excavation project in Minnesota, take the first important step in the safe digging process by contacting Gopher State One Call (GSOC) “this time and every time” before you do any excavation work!