BTA and COVID-19: The Latest Protocols
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An update from Executive Director Lynne Nemeth regarding Boyce Thompson Arboretum's response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
ll of us have been greatly affected by the outbreak of COVID-19, and without question, it has been a very difficult time. This past spring, on March 18, BTA shut down the Spring Plant Sale, closed all indoor spaces, and cancelled all tours, activities and events, including the Grand Opening of the Wallace Desert Garden. However, we have been very fortunate; because of our location and size, we have been able to stay open for visitors to walk and hike—providing a beautiful and restful place in nature. We have also adapted our programs to offer more online classes, virtual events and remote access to the gardens. Please visit our website or Facebook page for current information. Since March, we have modified our protocols repeatedly in response to changing circumstances. As always, your safety is our number one priority. We’re wearing face coverings and we
ask that you do, too. We will provide masks to visitors who don’t bring their own. You can count on us to operate safely. We are frequently sanitizing contact surfaces and high-traffic areas and practicing everyday preventive steps such as washing hands regularly and covering coughs and sneezes. Staff members who have come into contact with someone who is ill are being tested and quarantined at home. We will continue to make informed decisions based on trusted resources, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and Arizona Department of Health Services. And we encourage all community members to follow the advice of the CDC when choosing whether to visit any outdoor venue.
FALL GUIDELINES FOR VISITORS: • • • • •
Maintain 6 feet of distance between other guests not in your party. Face coverings REQUIRED to enter and when inside the gift shop and restrooms. Face coverings REQUIRED on trails when 6 feet of distance cannot be maintained. Face coverings REQUIRED for all tours and guided walks. Stay home if you are ill or have recently come into contact with someone who is ill with COVID-19.
GUIDED WALKS & TOURS RETURN! We’re excited to bring back guided walks and tours, and they’ll be better than ever! Pre-registration and face coverings are required and capacity is limited. Visit our website at www.btarboretum.org/events.
4 | Boyce Thompson Arboretum | Fall 2020
