As Michigan’s pent-up greenhouses finally come online after a virus-induced hiatus at the worst possible time of year, the organization representing many of them is lending them further assistance.
A set of COVID-19 safety posters designed specifically for use in and around Michigan greenhouses will soon be available free of charge to Michigan Farm Bureau members finally opening their extremely seasonal businesses to customers and delivering their products in bulk to retailers.
The posters outline basic COVID-19 safety guidelines workers and customers should all practice as Michigan’s substantial greenhouse sector resumes sales.
Greenhouses are commonplace statewide, but particularly dense across the southern Lower Peninsula’s I-94 corridor. Members there expressed a need for clear safety banners to help streamline opening, and a couple phone calls later MFB’s graphic design staff were on the task.
“This is timely for our greenhouse and garden center members as they open to the public and try to practice good safety and social distancing,” said MFB Southwest Regional Manager Sarah Pion, whose territory includes hothouse hotspot Kalamazoo. “They could also be a great resource for our upcoming farm market season.”
The images will be free to download from MFB’s online COVID-19 resource clearinghouse. English and Spanish versions will be available in two sizes, 8½” x 11” and 11” x 17”. (See also links below.) Printed and laminated versions will be available for a small cost.
“I’ve heard from members saying they want to follow CDC and state executive order guidelines to keep their customers safe,” said Audrey Sebolt, MFB’s horticulture industry relations specialist. “These posters will guide customers to follow CDC recommendations.
“Our members are taking these guidelines very seriously: not allowing children, mandatory facemasks, no drinking or eating, and designated hours for elderly, pregnant and immune-compromised customers.”
MFB staff contact: Audrey Sebolt
COVID safety poster links:
To place an order for laminated posters through the MFB Print Shop, fill out theGreenhouse Safety Poster Order Form and email it to [email protected]. A minimum of five posters must be ordered. The MFB Print Shop is also available to help with other greenhouse signage needs including floor graphics, metal signs, vinyl banners and more.