The UC Botanical Garden announced it will remain closed Thursday to protect the health of its workers amid the poor air quality in the Bay Area.
This decision was made in consideration of the health and safety of the garden’s volunteers, staff and patrons, according to Paul Licht, the garden’s interim director, in an emailed statement released to the community Thursday morning. Updates on future closures and reopening times will be posted on the garden’s website.
“Please take the precautions needed to stay healthy and safe in these conditions,” the website said. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the wildfires.“
The garden is one of several organizations in Berkeley that have decided to stop business as usual amid poor air quality — a consequence of the Butte County Camp Fire. The annual Berkeley Half Marathon has been canceled, and the Big Game Rally will proceed Friday without the traditions of bonfires or pyrotechnics.
Campus classes, meanwhile, will continue as usual, Chancellor Carol Christ announced in a statement Wednesday.