Our Commitment to Safety
2022 Great Lakes Herb Faire COVID policy
In the rapidly-shifting landscape of our times, we must first say that the points outlined below are subject to change. We will do our absolute best to safeguard the health and well-being of our attendees, teachers, and organizers based on the most current information. Some level of risk is probably unavoidable, but we believe that - as of now - that level is low enough to go ahead with planning for our long-awaited gathering.
The first and most important thing to remember is that we are, truly, all in this together. Each of us needs to do our part to keep our community safe. Respect each other. Protect each other. Be understanding of various people’s personal situations and comfort levels. No rules that we could establish will be as effective as your consideration and integrity. We are grateful that we can count on those things from all of you.
That said, here are the policies we will have in place and what we ask of you:
In the rapidly-shifting landscape of our times, we must first say that the points outlined below are subject to change. We will do our absolute best to safeguard the health and well-being of our attendees, teachers, and organizers based on the most current information. Some level of risk is probably unavoidable, but we believe that - as of now - that level is low enough to go ahead with planning for our long-awaited gathering.
The first and most important thing to remember is that we are, truly, all in this together. Each of us needs to do our part to keep our community safe. Respect each other. Protect each other. Be understanding of various people’s personal situations and comfort levels. No rules that we could establish will be as effective as your consideration and integrity. We are grateful that we can count on those things from all of you.
That said, here are the policies we will have in place and what we ask of you:
- Luckily, the Herb Faire has always been mostly outdoors. This year, we will be closing off all indoor classroom spaces and the mess hall (historically our most crowded area). Classes and sit-down eating areas will be outdoors in tented areas.
- Delicious food will still be served, however we will eat together under the protection of the tents, using compostable dishes. We’ll also have a selection of snacks available for purchase at the information table. For other meals, you will need to bring your own food.
- On-site lodging will be limited to camping only. You may see some cabins in use; these are reserved for a few teachers with particular needs, and will be limited to one household per cabin.
- At least one window in each bathroom will be kept open at all times (at least a little), regardless of weather. Please wear a mask whenever you’re in a bathroom, except, of course, if you’re brushing your teeth.
- Although all classes will be outdoors, please leave a reasonable distance between yourself and others as much as possible, and wear a mask anytime you find yourself in close quarters.
- When you arrive, you will be asked to sign a form affirming that you are not sick and haven’t had a known COVID exposure within the past week.
- After considering current data and recommendations, we will not require proof of negative tests or vaccination. We trust that if you’ve had a recent exposure, or don’t feel well, you will do the right thing and stay home.
- If you begin to feel ill during the weekend, please either make the decision to leave, or report to First Aid for a test. If you are visibly ill, you may be asked to report to First Aid, where they will determine whether you need to be tested, or to leave. Anyone who tests positive will need to leave the grounds.
- If you need to cancel or leave due to a COVID risk, credit toward next year’s event or possible partial refunds will be decided on a case-by-case basis.