The Threat

Loss of income has put Oak Alley Plantation in dire economic straights. Employees have been terminated, and operations have been reduced to the basics. Gardeners have been laid off. Expensive pruning, spraying, fertilizing and turf management routines, as well as landscape and gardening projects, have been severely diminished or terminated. Plans for development and expansion have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely. Lack of a labor force has prevented seasonal plantings, and some areas have been totally untended. As the months have passed, only a few visitors have returned: sadly, the forecast for tourism is dismal for years to come. With the approach of spring and summer, the maintenance of Oak Alley will be compromised due to lack of income.

Tourism is the link to employment, restoration, care, maintenance and project development. Admission funds are routed throughout the business networks of the plantations and one path takes the money to the gardens. Without tourism, the future of the landscape at Oak Alley is precarious. It is vital that the public understand that — while New Orleans and the Gulf Coast took a powerful blow — they are already on the mend. Hotels, restaurants and tourist destinations are open, and transportation is available! And, while there are many areas still in need of repair, the Great River Road and the plantations are safe, accessible—and they welcome the return of visitors.

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