Green Industry Responds to Hurricane Charley's Havoc

Hurricane Charley swept across Florida and portions of the southeast last week, causing losses to life, property, livelihood, and more. Insured losses have so far been estimated at $7.4 Billion, and the tally is climbing. The agricultural and horticultural industries in Florida have been very hard hit, with farms and nurseries reporting loss of crops and damage to greenhouses and shade structures. Damages range from partial to complete devastation for those in the path of Hurricane Charley.

As one farm reports: "We have a nursery, turfgrass and citrus in desperate need of salvaging. We lost 99% of our workers who are either missing or cannot report to work. We would like help salvaging anything we can, currently we are at 3/4 loss for citrus, 60% of the turf is under water and $700,000 estimated damage to our nursery."

There are many businesses in the same critical condition. They have communicated their need for assistance, and Green Industry partners are stepping forward to help. We encourage you to read the following information about assistance efforts and to consider what you can do to help during this critical period.

The Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) have been fielding calls from its members who have contacted them to assist fellow members impacted by Hurricane Charley. The FNGLA has organized the means to accept financial donations which will be used to purchase items that are sorely needed; from tools and equipment to water, non-perishable foods, and fuel. FNGLA has also organized a delivery system for supplies. Delivery support, including labor crews, is needed. Financial donations should be made out to FNGLA, and sent to: FNGLA, 1533 Park Center Drive, Orlando, FL 32835. Alternatively, contact the FNGLA by phone, 407.295.7994, or e-mail info@fngla.org.

The Florida Turfgrass Association (FTGA) has also stepped forward to handle responses to requests for cleanup assistance. At their Web site, you can read specific requests for assistance, and connect with those who need it, at ftga.org/charley/askforhelp.htm. If you can help, please contact the people who have submitted requests to the list.