We are meeting this week to make a decision regarding our annual Science Communication Workshop. This serves as the launch of our expedition field season and hands on training is pretty essential. We are leaning towards cancelling and offering a virtual version of the workshop.
We are also getting ready to jump into our heavy travel booking period. I am leaning towards booking last minute. Unless the travel vendors are offering full refund option vs. change/credit options.
Concerned right now for our employees that have to travel in/out of Mexico and Canada – many are not US Citizens. What if they get stuck across the border? Working on a skeleton plan for worst case scenario now.
Looking at what Massachusetts Institute of Technology is posting:
‘Further, as new outbreaks occur and government travel restrictions shift, be aware that, if you choose to travel outside the United States, you may encounter difficulties in returning.’
Our entire field season involves ports up and down the West Coast of the US. My latest concern is the 80 cruise ships that will now be stoping in Astoria, Oregon (vs the small handful that regularly utilize Astoria as a port stop). How does this increase our risk? Can Astoria handle a crisis?
I think we will move slowly this year and not get too far ahead in our planning in the event of a full stop.
Angela Murphy VTA, CTC, ACC
Ocean Exploration Trust
Manager, Travel and Logistics
