Most everyday activities around the world are restricted due to the COVID-19 outbreak and ATTO is no exception. We are affected by governmental guidance, restrictions on international travel and recently announced INPA policies. And we want to ensure the safety of people, especially those living in the Uatumã Sustainable Development Reserve. We have therefore minimized our field activities at ATTO since last week.
Researchers will not travel to ATTO to collect samples or make measurements until further notice. Scientists from outside Brazil have canceled all travel to Manaus until at least the end of April. The HALO CAFE-Brazil field campaign planned for April and May this year is now officially canceled as well, though we are hopeful it can be rescheduled in the future. For now, a small core team will continue taking care of our long-term measurements. We want to extend our special thank those who are working hard to keep ATTO going!
We do not want to impede scientific progress and know this will be an especially difficult time for students. However, we must all do our part in slowing down the spread of COVID-19. In addition, we need to be mindful of the remoteness of the ATTO station from health services and the vulnerability of the people living nearby.
As it is difficult to anticipate the duration of these measures, we are inviting you to check back here or follow our social media channels for updates as the situation develops in the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, we do hope that you and your loved ones will stay safe, healthy and at home.
