FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2020
FARMINGTON, NM – On June 4, Navajo Agricultural Products Industry (“NAPI”) notified employees that the extended partial shutdown implemented on March 31 has been further extended to July 5. NAPI is an enterprise of the Navajo Nation that operates and maintains a 73,000-acre commercial farm with over 300 employees.
The partial shutdown is in response to the fourth executive order (No. 005-20) issued by the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President to further extend the closure of Navajo Nation Government offices and related entities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
At this time, NAPI is operating with a minimal selection of essential employees to meet the ag-industry demands. All other employees were released to remain at home and continue to receive paid administrative leave.
Dave Zeller, Chief Executive Officer says, “While on administrative leave, employees are expected to refrain from events, gatherings, or other areas where they may contract COVID-19 and to observe and follow all Public Health Emergency Orders issued since March 16, 2020.”
Region 2 Scales is the one location open to the public on the farm and sells Navajo Pride products during the reduced hours of Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. The store is located 6 miles south of Farmington on Highway 371 and 6 miles west on Navajo Route 3003.
NAPI will continue to closely monitor and follow the recommendations provided by health and government officials.
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