The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Alabama Cooperative Extension System this week announced changes in office hours and procedures aimed at slowing spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Many USDA Service Centers are currently open for business, some by appointment only. In certain locations, USDA Service Centers are closed to the public with employees teleworking who can assist customers virtually. Please call your local USDA Service Center for up-to-date information on access. For more information and frequently asked questions, visit farmers.gov.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has closed its county and state offices through April 10 in response to coronavirus control protocols from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During this time, Extension follows guidance from Alabama A&M and Auburn universities, the two parent universities of the agency.

“Social distancing is an important tool to control this outbreak,” said Gary Lemme, director of Alabama Extension. “Our staff are working from home, and we have temporarily halted face-to-face meetings. Advance planning has allowed Extension agents to continue offering information by web, social media, e-mail and phone.”

Allen Malone, Extension 1890 director at Alabama A&M University, said Extension meetings will only be held by digital delivery methods.

“All Extension meetings are cancelled or postponed,” Malone said. “We are only hosting online meetings to reduce the risk of exposure. Contact your Extension agent if you are requesting a farm or home consultation.”

At this time, there is no link between cases of COVID-19 and Alabama Extension offices or activities.

Visit www.aces.edu or www.AlabamaReady.info for contact information on individual agents, specialists and regional agents. The site also includes informative articles and videos related to COVID-19.