Rising above the storm: Nutrien's White Springs phosphate facility rolls up their sleeves after Hurricane Idalia
Published: Oct 02, 2023
In the wake of Hurricane Idalia's devastating impact, Nutrien's White Springs phosphate facility rallied to help employees and the community get back on their feet.
On August 30, Idalia made landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast as a powerful Category 3 storm. It was the strongest hurricane to make landfall in the Big Bend region in more than 125 years and caused flooding, downed trees, electricity outages and widespread destruction to homes and businesses.
Volunteers from the White Springs phosphate facility stepped up to form a rapid action strike team to support their colleagues, many of whom had their homes damaged, and helped the community get back on its feet.
The group began by assisting Hamilton County with clearing important public roads for access to the site and supplying clean water to keep everyone hydrated. That quickly evolved to providing large amounts of ice to keep refrigerated food from spoiling.
Rachel Garland, Government and Industry Affairs Manager at White Springs, was part of that effort. “We spread the word that we were here to help,” she says. “We brought in an ice truck and provided bottled water and ready-to-eat meals – it was one less thing for employees and neighbors to worry about as they dealt with clean-up efforts.”
The White Springs team didn't stop there. They also helped employees with widespread power outages. “With the support of Nutrien's management, we were able to source and distribute several generators, which made a world of difference as the power company struggled to keep up with downed power lines,” says Rachel. “The team also set up mobile showers for staff and their families who were without water and electricity, and provided supplies, such as tarps.”
“This was a prime example of our Culture of Care in action,” says Jeff Joyce, General Manager at White Springs. “We look out for each other and our community, and it shows what can be achieved when a group of determined individuals come together to make a positive impact. I’m proud of our team for rising to the occasion, and I thank them all.”
We also thank the American Red Cross who provided the community with meal and clean-up kits as well as shelters and other resources to aid in the recovery. Nutrien has made a $15,000 donation to the American Red Cross.