Although there are promising developments being reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), there is still uncertainty around in person events during 2021. Earlier this month, the Louisiana governor, John Bel Edwards, extended his modified Phase 2 order, keeping Covid-19 mitigation measures in place for another 28 days, and strongly recommending against large gatherings. Due to this uncertainty, as well as health conerns, the NDA board voted unanimously to cancel Demolition New Orleans.

The timing of the announcement will come as a disappointment to many and the cancelling of the event is made with regrets, but the decision is made in the best interest of all attendees, exhibitors, and volunteers. The vaccine roll out and improvements in rapid testing programmes gives great confidence for the prospects of the industry, and the organisers are confident of delivering a successful Demolition Convention and Expo in San Diego, California, 26 February to 1 March 2022.

The NDA however is exploring virtual opportunities to celebrate those who have reached great milestones in their careers and innovative project work within the last year. Details will be shared about upcoming education sessions and the presentation of the 2021 awards as they become available. The NDA would like to thank the convention committee, and in particular, Scott Laird and Scot Stein for their amazing work in planning this year’s event. Their leadership during this trying time has been appreciated by the NDA staff team and fellow volunteers. The NDA apologises for any inconvenience this cancelation may have caused and wishes to thank all for patience and understanding.