OTHELLO — Citing concerns over the possible impacts of COVID-19, also called the novel coronavirus, organizers have canceled the 2020 Othello Sandhill Crane Festival.

The festival was scheduled for March 20 through 22.

Co-chair Chris Braunwart said the decision followed a Wednesday morning meeting with Adams County Health District officials, Adams County commissioners, Othello School District and Othello city officials.

“It was highly recommended from the health district we don’t hold the event,” Braunwart said.

Discussions about whether or not to proceed had been going on for about a week.

“Much as we didn’t want to cancel it, it was expected,” she said.

Because the festival’s focus is migrating birds, it can’t be rescheduled. “Unfortunately, it’s not something we can postpone,” Braunwart said.

— Cheryl Schweizer