Governor Defines Forestry and Agricultural Workers as Essential

On March 26, Governor Sununu issued a stay at home order which directed all businesses and other organizations to close to workers, customers, and the public and to cease all in person operations. That step further underscores how the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered the way of life for millions of people across the world.  While New Hampshire has so far been spared the severe impacts seen in other places, we are not immune to virus. The Forest Society is doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by closing our offices and by cancelling and postponing our planned public events.

However, last week’s order did define the industries and jobs which are considered essential. Included in this list are workers who “support the manufacture and distribution of forest products, including, but not limited to timber, paper, and other wood products.”

Forest Society President Jack Savage had noted in his March 24 letter to the Governor that forestry and agricultural workers typically perform their work outside either alone or in small groups. We appreciate the Governor’s recognition of this fact. His decision to allow those employed in the forest products sector to continue to work will help the state recover from the damaging effects of the pandemic.