The effects of the horrible floods that have recently affected Iowa are being felt nationwide. Iowa florists, though exhibiting a tenacious resilience, are facing a major challenge as many flower shops are under as much as ten feet of water.

According to a recent online article from the Society of American Florists, Flower Shop Network member Todd Krieger is among the florists in Iowa who were struck by the recent floods and storms. Krieger’s Greenhouses & Floral in Mason City spent more than 36 hours under 2 feet of water causing Mr. Krieger to close for five days. The damage is still present and remains a daily reminder of the struggle that many Iowa residents are facing in the coming months.

Flower Shop Network member florists in Cedar Rapids are also experiencing difficulties due to flooding. Al Pierson of Pierson’s Flower Shop has been removed from the main location of his shop and operating out of a second location on higher ground. Sally Stejskal of Stejskal Florists, Inc. escaped the flooding by a mere one-half mile. Ms. Stejskal, who has compassionately taken in an employee whose family was affected by flooding, is also feeling the pangs of witnessing her local community in disarray.

Flower Shop Network would like to extend our sympathy and support to these and other Midwestern florists affected by the tragic storms and floods. The endurance and vigilant spirits of these incredible survivors is truly inspirational to us all. For more information about disaster relief and learn how to help flood survivors visit the American Red Cross or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).