Letter from our Executive Director, Juliet Rynear regarding COVID-19

Dear Member,

I am writing to everyone in our Florida Native Plant Society family regarding the spread of Coronavirus disease (Covid-19). With the number of confirmed cases doubling every 2 days, there is a definite need for proactive measures to contain the spread.

Your health and well-being are our #1 priority!

Together we can help prevent the continued spread of the disease by following guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Many businesses and organizations are cancelling events in support of the CDC’s recommendations on social distancing (6-foot safe distance zone) and avoiding large crowds to limit the spread.

Our Dade Chapter has cancelled their Native Plant Day event on March 21st in support of the CDS’s recommendations.

At this time, we have not cancelled or rescheduled our 40th Annual Conference; however, we are watching the Covid-19 updates daily and will keep you informed as we know more about the spread of the virus.

On a personal level, having attended a conference in Georgia last week and traveled through 2 international airports, I am practicing social distancing and avoiding large crowds just in case I may have come into contact with the virus. For up-to-date information, click on the links below:

CDC information on the virus and preventative measures
The current status of COVID-19 cases in Florida via the Florida Department of Health
An excellent article illustrating how an immediate and proactive response can dramatically reduce the spread of highly infectious diseases

Take care,

Juliet Rynear
Executive Director

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