Health Dept.: Orchard followed COVID protocols despite complaints

A Shoreham apple orchard linked to a recent COVID-19 outbreak was the subject of five public health complaints, including several about COVID protocol. The Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or VOSHA, received five complaints from either an employee or customer at Champlain Orchards between July and October, according to records obtained by VTDigger. The anonymous complaints alleged that workers weren’t following quarantine rules, weren’t wearing masks, and had unsafe working and living … (read more)

SHOREHAM — After closing down more than a week ago to manage an outbreak of COVID-19 among its staff, Champlain Orchards is open again for pick-your-own apples. “It’s been quite a week here at Champlain Orchards, but we’ve all persevered thanks to the lov … (read more)

This story, originally published on Monday, October 5, was updated on Wednesday, October 7. The total count of cases among seasonal apple pickers is now up to 28, according to an email from the orchard. SHOREHAM — Champlain Orchards closed temporarily, af … (read more)

MIDDLEBURY – Four Addison County businesses will benefit from a combined total of $59,600 in grants through the state’s “Building Community” program, money that will be used for such projects as creating a meat processing facility off Middlebury’s Exchang … (read more)

ADDISON COUNTY — The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets recently announced it had awarded $60,000 to 13 Vermont produce growers making on-farm improvements that prevent or reduce produce safety risks.  Two of those farms receiving grants are in … (read more)