By Track

Keynote & Luncheon
Wednesday, November 19
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
2nd floor – Banquet ABC

Intentional Partnerships

Catharine Young, Executive Director, New York State Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture, Cornell AgriTech & Cornell Institute for Food Systems Faculty Fellow, Food Science

The Real Dirt: Surviving and Thriving as New Ag Educator  
Tuesday, November 18
4:15 – 5:30 pm
Location: 2nd floor – Banquet D

New, newer, newish to your role as an Ag Educator for CCE? No matter when or where you’ve been planted, join this action-packed event for the “real dirt” on how to survive, grow, and thrive as an Extension Educator. Colleagues from Regional Ag Teams, PWTs, Extension Administration, Educator’s Associations and more will help you to think about building connections with colleagues, get you connected to communication channels, and guide you in exploring the resources and opportunities.   

Networking Event
Wednesday, November 19
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: 2nd Floor – Lobby & Banquet ABC

Join us to mingle with old and new colleagues. Light snacks will be provided and a cash bar will be available.

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) Session

Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Pesticides

Update on Cornell Guideline Reimagining Project

Description: This session will have 2 parts. Part 1 will be an overview of how EPA’s new ESA mitigation strategies will affect pesticide use in the future. Part 2 will provide an update on the Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guideline Reimagining project.

Presenter:

– Mike Helms, Pesticide Safety Education Program Leader, Cornell IPM

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd floor – Banquet E

Exploring the Resources on Greenhouse Production

Description: In this session, the presenters will discuss the resources on greenhouse production including IPM, irrigation water quality, and fertilizer management. Extension educators will learn about where and how to obtain the resources and the support they need to provide better assistance to growers.

10:00 – 10:15 AM
Title: All the Help We Can Get: Resources for greenhouse growers
Dr. Elizabeth Lamb, Ornamental IPM Coordinator, Cornell Integrated Pest Management

10:15 – 11:00 AM
Title: Recent Advances in Greenhouse Insect Management at Cornell and the Road Ahead
The impact of management practices on microbiome diversity in CEA
Dr. Samantha Willden, Assistant professor, Department of Entomology, Cornell University and Dr. Dominique Holtappels, The Susan Eckert Lynch Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section, Cornell University

11:00 – 11:30 AM
Title: Water quality and fertilizer management: Essentials and further resources
Dr. Neil Mattson, Professor, Horticulture Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Climate Mitigation Opportunities in NYS Farming Systems

Description: Practical climate mitigation strategies for NY agriculture including: 

• Peter Woodbury – “GHG mitigation opportunities in NY cropping systems” 

• Cian Evans – “Practical applications of enhanced rock weathering in NY croplands” 

• Jason Oliver and Lauren Ray –  “Climate smart manure management updates” 

Presenters:

– Peter Woodbury, Senior Research Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Cian Evans, Technician, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University
– Jason Oliver, Senior Extension Associate and Dairy Environmental Systems Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University
– Lauren Ray, Agricultural Sustainability and Energy Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Where Innovation Meets Food Safety: Building Local Foods through Product Development

Description:

Join us for a pre-workshop session that explores how agriculture, value-added products and food entrepreneurship intersect to strengthen community food systems. We will be discussing our Pilot Year experience with the Cornell Food Connections Program that focuses on training food system educators to support their stakeholders’’ product development process by taking advantage of the most advanced scientific knowledge and tools at our fingertips to create the best products possible while ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance.

This interactive session will highlight real-world examples of product development in action, share insights from recent Cornell Food Connections workshops across New York State, and provide guidance on how YOU can get involved in next year’s training opportunities.

Whether you’re a Cooperative Extension educator, Taste NY manager, community leader, or local food advocate, you’ll learn how to connect with and support food entrepreneurs in your own county or region.

What to expect:

• Explore the product development journey from kitchen concept to commercial shelf.
• Case studies: how food entrepreneurs succeeded – or why not.
• Learn how to nominate or enroll participants for the 2026 cohort.
• Discover ways to connect your local producers with trained food safety advisors, technical assistance networks and pathways to market.

This session will be led by Dr. Bruno Xavier and Cynthia James, experts from the Cornell Food Venture Center, who are passionate about empowering local food producers and building resilient food economies.

Presenters:

– Dr. Bruno Xavier, Food Scientist, Cornell Food Venture Center
– Cynthia James, Food Scientist, Cornell Food Venture Center

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Proposed PWT on Engaging Spanish-Speaking Communities

Description: We are exploring the interest in forming a new PWT / Working group on engaging Spanish-speaking communities around NYS. We will review the ‘A Sus Ordenes’ project which laid the groundwork for this effort. We will then refine goals and objectives for a group, based upon an initial survey as well participant interests.

Presenter:

– Raúl Lemus Garza, NYSIPM
– Tim Shenk, Cornell Small Farms Program

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Municipality Training: How to work with farmers on municipality issues 

Description: This workshop is designed for Cornell Cooperative Extension educators to strengthen their understanding of how Agricultural Districts, local planning, and zoning regulations influence farm viability. Participants will learn about CCE’s role in working with farmers, municipal officials, and county planning departments. The session includes an overview of Agricultural Districts, the 305-a review process, and state guidelines for evaluating local laws affecting farm operations—including direct marketing and farm-based beverage production. A brief discussion on zoning regulations will highlight key considerations for supporting agricultural development. Educators will receive practical resources to assist in their community engagement and technical support efforts.

Presenters:

– Melinda Meddaugh, Agriculture & Food Systems Senior Issue Leader, CCE Sullivan County
– Jeff Kehoe, Agricultural Protection Planner, NYS Department of Ag & Markets

Track: Agritourism

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

101 Agritourism: Developing Agritourism in Your County (Education, Promotion, Buy Local, and more)

Description: This session will focus on developing agritourism in your county. There will be a focus around educational outreach, promotion, buy local, trails, and more.

Presenter:

– Lindsey Pashow, Agriculture Business Development and Marketing Specialist, Harvest NY, CCE
– Laura Biasillo, Agriculture Economic Development Specialist, CCE Broome County

Track: Agritourism

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Cut Flowers Statewide Update and Next Steps for Cut Flower Outreach 

Description: This session will focus on the past, current, and future work that the CCE Cut Flower program work team has contributed over the year. 

Presenter:

– CCE Cut Flower Program Work Team

Track: Agritourism

Session 1 & 2
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Offsite – Long Spoon Farm and South Hill Cider

Agroforestry Field Tours at Long Spoon Farm and South Hill Cider 

Description: See multiple agroforestry practices in action at these two small farms 10-15 minutes from downtown Ithaca. At Long Spoon Farm, learn about alley cropping, woody plant nursery production, silvopasture with geese, and forest farming. CCE Columbia-Greene educator Tracey Testo will demonstrate tools to do a woodland assessment for forest farming potential. In the second tour at South Hill Cider, learn how and why farmer Steve Selin integrates sheep into his organically-managed cider orchard. 

Presenter:

– Jonathan Bates, Agroforestry Educator, CCE Tompkins
– Tracey Testo, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Program Manager, CCE Columbia-Greene
– Steve Selin, farmer/owner, South Hill Cider 

Track: Agroforestry

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet E

Showcasing Examples of Successful Agroforestry Extension 

Description: This session will contain multiple short presentations highlighting leadership in agroforestry extension across the Cornell ecosystem:  

Additive Silvopasture: Tools to Spread Implementation (Erica Frenay) 

Organizing “Learn-and-Do’s” as Hands-on Farm Tours (Jonathan Bates) 

How the Siuslaw Model Forest Encourages Landowners to Implement Forest Farming (Tracey Testo) 

Agroforestry Workforce Development – A Pilot Project in Tompkins County (Graham Savio) 

Presenters:

– Erica Frenay, Director of Distance Learning and Special Projects, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Jonathan Bates, Agroforestry Educator, CCE Tompkins
– Tracey Testo, Agroforestry and Natural Resources Program Manager, CCE Columbia-Greene
– Graham Savio, Ag and Hort Issue Leader, CCE Tompkins 

Track: Agroforestry

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet E

Agroforestry Research Updates and New Tools

Description: This session will contain multiple short presentations highlighting leadership in agroforestry research and resource development across the Cornell ecosystem:  

Value-Added Agroforestry Crops for Profitability: Innovations in Maple, Nut, and Mushrooms – Production, Processing, and Clarifying Regulations (Aaron Wightman, Jonathan Bates, Connor Youngerman) 

Preliminary Results of Hazelnut Variety Trials (Jonathan Bates) 

Presenters:

– Aaron Wightman, Senior Extension Associate, Arnot Maple Lab
– Jonathan Bates, Agroforestry Educator, CCE Tompkins
– Connor Youngerman, Agroforestry Specialist, Cornell Small Farms Program 

Track: Agroforestry

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:0 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Working with Farmers

Description: Providing Assistance and Information to Farmers: How to determine if your land is suitable for large-scale solar, phases of development and what projects look like, what should go into a lease, how to incorporate various ag practices with solar, decommissioning.

Presenters:

– Jen Manierre, Director of Clean Energy Siting, NYSERDA
– Kevin Campbell, Director of Development, EDF Power Solutions

Track: Ag Solar

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Environmental Impacts

Description: Soil impacts, stormwater management, noise and other impacts during construction, concerns around toxicity of panels, decommissioning (and recycling of panels), safety (incl. fire) concerns (incl. batteries and other equipment)

Presenters:

– Jason Mulford, Principal Environmental Analyst, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
– Jeremy Wyble, Senior Project Manager, NYSERDA’s Large-Scale Renewables Program

Track: Ag Solar

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Financial and Tax Implications

Description: How do projects affect Ag assessments, property values (incl. neighboring properties), farm succession/preservation plan, what if it’s in a conservation/preservation easement?

Presenter:

– Wendong Zhang, Associate Professor, Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management

Track: Ag Solar

Session 8
Thursday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Agrivoltaics

Description: Latest research on what grows under and around various solar designs, including both crops and livestock (incl. but not only sheep), highlights of three Cornell-owned agrivoltaics research sites, and update on soil health research.

Presenters:

– Caroline Marschner, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil & Crops Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Jared Buono, Director, Cornell Hudson Valley Research Laboratory
– Harold van Es, Professor of Soil and Water Management, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil & Crops Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Michael Glos, Research and Extension Technician, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil & Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University

Track: Ag Solar

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Climate Mitigation Opportunities in NYS Farming Systems

Description: Practical climate mitigation strategies for NY agriculture including: 

– Peter Woodbury – “GHG mitigation opportunities in NY cropping systems”

– Cian Evans – “Practical applications of enhanced rock weathering in NY croplands”

– Jason Oliver and Lauren Ray –  “Climate smart manure management updates” 

Presenters:

– Peter Woodbury, Senior Research Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Cian Evans, Technician, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University
– Jason Oliver, Senior Extension Associate and Dairy Environmental Systems Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University
– Lauren Ray, Agricultural Sustainability and Energy Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Dairy Update: Changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Order & AWDC Update: New Support from Cornell Ag Workforce Development 

Description: This session will provide an update on the dairy industry from Dr. Chis Wolf with a focus on changes made to the Federal Milk Marketing Order that took effect on June 1, 2025.  The AWDC will introduce their newest members, Katelyn Lutz and Lucas Smith.  Each will have the opportunity to share about their work and how they can support CCE educators.  

Presenter:

– Christopher Wolf, E.V. Baker Professor of Agricultural Economics, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Richard Stup, Senior Extension Associate, Agricultural Workforce Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension, School of Integrative Plant Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Kaitlyn Lutz, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plans Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Lucas Smith, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plans Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University

Track: Dairy, Farm Business Management

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Update on Field Crops Performance Network and Corn Silage Trials & Optimizing Silage Utilization by Aligning Forage Needs, Inventory and Storage

Description: The first part of this session will provide an update on the corn silage trails Joe Lawrence leads and an overview of the Field Crops Performance Network. 

The second half of the session Betsy Hicks and Joe Lawrence will talk about considerations for aligning available silage with diet, inventory and storage. 

Presenters:

– Betsy Hicks, Regional Dairy Specialist, CCE SCNY
– Joe Lawrence, Forage Management Specialist, PRODAIRY 

Track: Dairy, Field Crops

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Beyond Words: AI for Bilingual, Multimedia Dairy Training 

Description: This interactive session explores how artificial intelligence can enhance dairy education by providing training in various formats that connect with Hispanic dairy workers. Instead of relying mainly on text, AI can produce clear visuals of farm tasks, engaging stories that reflect workers’ daily experiences, and simple bilingual audio guides to support learning. Participants will discover how tools like chatbots, image generators, and voice-based platforms can turn Standard Operating Procedures into accessible, culturally relevant lessons. Through discussion and examples, we will examine how multimedia and bilingual approaches improve understanding, motivation, and long-term retention, making training more practical and effective on the dairy farm. 

Presenter:

– Dr. Wolfgang Heuwieser, Director, Quality Milk Production Services. Professor, Population Medicine & Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine 

Track: Dairy

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Barn Ventilation Red Flags & Using High Oleic Soybeans in Dairy Diets 

Description: For the first presentation Tim Terry will discuss the kind of things that indicate a barn ventilation system is not adequate or functioning properly.  This session will focus on the red flags that indicate further investigation is needed.  We won’t be focusing on designing ventilation systems. 

The second presentation will be by Dr. Tom Overton will discuss the newest research and recommendations for using high oleic soybeans in dairy rations. 

Presenter:

– Tim Terry, M.S., Farm Strategic Planning Specialist, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science
– Thomas R. Overton, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Director, PRO-DAIRY program, Department of Animal Science, Cornell University 

Track: Dairy

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Dairy Update: Changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Order & AWDC Update: New Support from Cornell Ag Workforce Development 

Description: This session will provide an update on the dairy industry from Dr. Chis Wolf with a focus on changes made to the Federal Milk Marketing Order that took effect on June 1, 2025.  The AWDC will introduce their newest members, Katelyn Lutz and Lucas Smith.  Each will have the opportunity to share about their work and how they can support CCE educators.  

Presenter:

– Christopher Wolf, E.V. Baker Professor of Agricultural Economics, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Richard Stup, Senior Extension Associate, Agricultural Workforce Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension, School of Integrative Plant Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Kaitlyn Lutz, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plans Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Lucas Smith, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plans Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University

Track: Dairy, Farm Business Management

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet E

What’s Happening in Dyson!  

Description: This track will be a series of short reports on research that is being conducted in Dyson!   

Dr. Wendong Zhang will discuss the Solar Agri-Voltaics project. 

The Solar Sheep Cooperative Grant project with the Financial Feasibility Model will be introduced.  

The Bio-Digester Farm Project update with Dr. Wendong Zhang and Dr. Chris Wolf  

Presenter:

– Wendong Zhang, Associate Professor, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Christopher Wolf, E.V. Baker Professor of Agricultural Economics, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Todd Schmit, Professor, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Nicole Tommell, Extension Associate, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Summer Santillana, M.S. Student, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University

Track: Farm Business Management

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Farmer-Centered Organizations: The Role of Cooperatives & Collaboratives in NY Ag

Description: NY agriculture has a long history with agricultural cooperatives.  Today, interest in formal and informal grower cooperatives and collaboratives is remerging, particularly with new and diverse farmers. What can we learn from examples of those cooperatives that have thrived versus failed? What are interesting new examples of farmer collaboratives or cooperatives? What are the resources available to support the design, development, implementation and evaluation of such structures?  What skills are needed to support farmers in consideration of a group organization?  

Presenter:

– Todd Schmit, Professor, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Nicole Tommell, Extension Associate, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Anu Rangarajan, Director, Cornell Small Farm Program

Track: Farm Business Management, Small Farms, Vegetables

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

A Changing Way of Life: Ambiguous loss and farming

Description: Ambiguous loss is a confusing loss without clear closure. The confusion comes from someone or something being both present and absent at the same time, like a missing person or someone with dementia. Others might not recognize the loss, and people may struggle to move forward in resolving the original issue. 

Presenter:

– Stephen Hadcock, Beginning Farmer and Market Development, CCE Albany
– Colin Hostetter, Farm Business Management Specialist, CCE Jefferson, Lewis, & St. Lawrence

Track: Farm Business Management, Small Farms

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Climate Mitigation Opportunities in NYS Farming Systems

Description: Practical climate mitigation strategies for NY agriculture including: 

– Peter Woodbury – “GHG mitigation opportunities in NY cropping systems”

– Cian Evans – “Practical applications of enhanced rock weathering in NY croplands”

– Jason Oliver and Lauren Ray –  “Climate smart manure management updates” 

Presenters:

– Peter Woodbury, Senior Research Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Cian Evans, Technician, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University
– Jason Oliver, Senior Extension Associate and Dairy Environmental Systems Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University
– Lauren Ray, Agricultural Sustainability and Energy Engineer, PRO-DAIRY, Animal Science, Cornell University

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

NY Soil Health Benchmarks  +   New Field Crop Phytopathology Program 

Description: This will be presented by NY Soil Health and they would like to organize a shuttle for up to 12 people to visit cover crop plots on the campus farm towards the end of the day. This will be followed by a brief introduction of the new field crop phytopathologist Camilo Parada Rojas giving a short introduction of his background and plans for his program. 

Presenter:

– Joseph Amsili, Senior Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Kristen Loria, Technician, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Camilo Parada Rojas, Field Crops Pathologist, Cornell University

Track: Field Crops

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

NY On-Farm Research Partnership Updates  

Description: Field Crops Nutrient Management Update 

Presenter:

– Quirine Ketterings, Professor of Nutrient Management in Agricultural Systems, Animal Science, Cornell University
– NMSP team

Track: Field Crops

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Smarter Seeds for Smarter Systems: Breeding & Variety Updates for 2026

Description: This session will highlight development of climate-ready crop varieties with a focus on breeding and selection for a changing Northeast. In addition, it will focus beyond yield, on varieties bred for quality, input efficiency, and other traits essential to superior performance on northeast farms. 

Presenter:

– Virginia Moore, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Cornell University
– Julie Hansen, Senior Research Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Cornell University
– Mark Sorrells, Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Cornell University
– David Benscher, Research Support Specialist, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Cornell University
– RJ Richtmyer, Research Support Specialist, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics Section, Cornell University

Track: Field Crops

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Digital On-Farm Experimentation + Weed Research Updates in NY Field Crops

Description: This session will be shared between the Farmers Datalab program and the Sustainable Weed Management lab. The Farmers Datalab will present new tools facilitating the collaboration between farmers and scientists and will give updates on the latest on-farm experimentation campaign. The Sustainable Weed Management lab will present latest updates on the status of herbicide-resistant weeds in NY and chemical/non-chemical weed control research in NY field crops. 

Presenter:

– Louis Longchamps, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Alex Yore, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Vipan Kumar, Associate Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University

Track: Field Crops, Vegetables

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Updates from the Cornell IPM Neonicotinoid Task Force: Insights from on-farm trials and other research and extension efforts 

Description: This session will provide an introduction to neonicotinoid insecticides alongside an update on integrated pest management (IPM) training and the forthcoming Birds & Bees legislation. Topics include the risks and benefits of neonicotinoid use in field crops with a focus on pollinator health, best management practices, and early recommendations to support farmers as the new legislation takes effect. We will also review observations of early pest damage across New York under different management practices in the context of the neonicotinoid ban, and share new findings on the effects of methyl jasmonate seed treatments on herbivory and yield across contrasting soil conditions. 

Presenter:

– Alejandro Calixto, Director, Cornell Integrated Pest Management
– Scott McArt, Associate Professor, Department of Entomology, Cornell University
– Katja Poveda, Professor, Department of Entomology, Cornell University
– Jennifer Thaler, Professor, Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University

Track: Field Crops

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Sustainable Pest Control? Demystifying “Organic” Products and Approaches for the Home Garden

Description: This session will provide a foundation of knowledge and terminology about pest control products as well as support for gardeners looking for more “sustainable” or “ecological” options. Presenters will share and demonstrate the appropriate processes and considerations for finding appropriate, effective products through our available systems and resources. 

Presenters:

– Mike Helms, Pesticide Safety Education Program Leader, Cornell Integrated Pest Management
– Amara Dunn-Silver, Biocontrol Specialist, Cornell AgriTech 

Track: Horticulture

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Site Assessment Skills for Climate Smart Gardens

Description: This session will showcase several examples of Master Gardener Volunteer Site Assessment Programs and related efforts across the state, on the urban to rural spectrum, and consider factors such as a changing climate, supporting community gardens, challenging sites, scheduling, and encouraging MGV participation. Presenters will share experiences with volunteer training, resources for gardens throughout their site development and use, case studies, and program benefits for fundraising and educational support to the community. The question and answer session at the end will inform local educators hoping to start their own Site Assessment Program or offer related supports to gardeners.

Presenter:

– Ashly Piedmont, Master Gardener Program Coordinator, CCE Monroe County
– Hillary Jufer, Horticulture Program Manager, CCE Westchester County
– Laurie VanNostrand, Master Gardener Program Coordinator/Consumer Horticulture, CCE Wayne County 

Track: Horticulture

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Urban Agriculture’s Role in Generating Ecological Novelty and Supporting Rare Species 

Description: Recent research has shown that small urban green spaces can play major roles in supporting unique forms of biodiversity. These green spaces, including community and residential gardens, vacant lots, and more are largely undervalued in their importance for biodiversity conservation. In this session we’ll talk about recent evidence for urban gardens as biodiversity reservoirs, actions you can take to support unique forms of biodiversity in your gardens, and some future projects that are starting across the region. 

Presenter:

– Aaron Sexton, Assistant Professor, Cornell University, School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Horticulture Section 

Track: Horticulture, Urban Agriculture

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Botanical and Culinary Medicine: Growing Plants for Health and Wellness 

Description: In this session, Giulia Friso will share the historical and cultural context of key culinary plants and the health benefits they provide for stress management, mental health, and physical ailments.  She’ll draw from her lectures on the topic of “food as medicine” with a focus on common culinary plants easily grown in the garden (such as dandelion, lavender, chamomile and culinary herbs).  The session will integrate concepts of biochemistry, pharmacology, physiology, ethnobotany and indigenous knowledge in the study of culinary plants for health.  Come prepared to engage with hands-on samples and activities to extend this education to the public.

Presenter:

– Giulia Friso, Senior Research Associate/Senior Lecturer, Cornell University, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Biology Section

Track: Horticulture

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Offsite – Simme Valley Farm, Groton, NY

Part 1 – Field Trip – Beef Quality Assurance Training at the Chute

Description: Experience an on-farm Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) demonstration at Simme Valley Farm in Groton, NY, focused on practical chute-side skills. Topics include tips for planning and organizing BQA trainings, and proper cattle handling, injection handling, and injection administration will be demonstrated on-site. This session is designed to help CCE educators gain confidence in hosting their own BQA events. Don’t miss this opportunity, as Session 2 will expand on these concepts and provide additional resources for educator success. Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions as this session includes live demonstrations. Carpooling and ride sharing will be arranged.  

Presenter:

– Dr. Adam Murray, Beef Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK & Chrissy Claudio, New York Beef Council 

Track: Livestock

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Offsite – Simme Valley Farm, Groton, NY

Part 2 – Field Trip – Beef Quality Assurance Training, Beyond the Chute 

Description: This session will build on the chute-side experience and provide additional resources for educators to build confidence in hosting their own Beef Quality Assurance events. Educators will also learn about updates to the BQA certification process, including new Continuing Education modules with ready-made presentations they can use for regional trainings. Through the management strategies and knowledge shared through the BQA program, CCE educators can assist their beef producers in improving cattle welfare and beef quality while increasing consumer confidence in beef production practices. 

Presenter:

– Dr. Adam Murray, Beef Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK, Chrissy Claudio, New York Beef Council 

Track: Livestock

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Equine Topics 

Cornell Equine; What’s bugging our horses? Updates on Equine Tickborne Disease Research at the Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center; What We Know So Far: Hemp Seed Meal as a Feed Ingredient for Horses 

Description: Dr. de Mestre will discuss Cornell Equine, a university-wide initiative focused on scientific research, innovative clinical care and education, statewide cooperative extension education programs, equine facilities, and equine youth and undergraduate education. Dr. Pinn-Woodcock will share updates from her research where she will review the newly recognized association between equine nuchal bursitis (poll evil) and Borrelia burgdorferi, and the role Anaplasma phagocytophilum plays in causing equine fevers in the northeastern United States. Camryn Yeager will talk about Hemp seed meal (HSM) as a high-quality protein, beneficial fatty acids, low starch, and high fiber, its potential, research that has evaluated the nutritional application and potential of HSM in equine diets.  

Presenter:

– Dr. Mandi de Mestre, Director, Cornell Equine
– Dr. Toby Pinn-Woodcock, Associate Clinical Professor, Cornell Vet College
– Camryn Yeager, graduate student, CALS 

Track: Livestock

Session 8
Thursday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Case Studies from SWNY: Small Ruminant Internal Parasites, Hudson Valley Textile Project; and Open Discussion/Sharing 

Description: First half of the session, Jess Waltemyer will discuss the fiber and wool initiative with Abby Henderson and the Hudson Valley Textile Project. Amy Barkley will review case studies from her internal parasite project funded by Northeast Risk Management Education. The second half will be open discussion and sharing.  

Presenter:

– Jessica Waltemyer, Small Ruminant Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK
– Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist, CCE SWNY Team 

Track: Livestock

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Adapting  Extension Programming in Natural Resources & Environment for Success Given Uncertainty 

Description: The social, economic and environmental landscape for Extension is changing in part due to climate warming impacts on our natural ecosystems and agricultural landscapes and also to recent, rapid changes in federal priorities and funding streams. More than ever, Extension has a critical role to play in providing trustworthy information for decision-making by diverse stakeholders across New York. I will present an overview of new faculty, research areas, and priorities in Cornell’s  Dept. Natural Resources and Environment and their relevance to New York’s landscapes, as well as the implications of the ongoing creation of a new School of Environment and Sustainable Development. The associated discussion will focus on potential new topics for interaction between Cornell and County Extension educators.  

Presenter:

– Rebecca Schneider, Ph.D. Section Head, Natural Resources & Environment, CALS

Track: Natural Resources

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Wild Edibles in Action: Advancing Stewardship, Food Skills, and Youth Engagement in CCE 

Description: Our workshop will focus on: 1) Role of wild edibles in environmental stewardship, food security, and youth empowerment; 2) Opportunities to build outdoor learning and practical skills; 3) Program offerings: plant identification, conservation practices, indigenous connection to wild plants, and techniques for processing and preparing them; and 4) Navigating CCE risk management frameworks to deliver Wild Edibles programming to the public. 

Presenter:

– Mingla Charoenmuang, Health, Wellness, and Food Systems Specialist, NYS 4-H Youth Development
– John Bowe, Executive Director, CCE Warren

Track: Natural Resources

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

Myriad Uses of Environmental DNA Technology in Agriculture and Forestry & Resilient Regenerated Forests with Slash Walls 

Myriad Uses of Environmental DNA Technology in Agriculture and Forestry 

Description: Environmental DNA (eDNA) is transforming how we monitor and manage ecosystems, with growing applications in both agriculture and forestry. This session will introduce current research on the use of eDNA for invasive species monitoring, biodiversity assessment, and support of biological control programs, highlighting its value as a versatile tool for land and resource managers across diverse systems. 

Presenters:

– Tonya Bittner, Research Associate, New York State Hemlock Initiative
– Jose Andrés, Faculty Fellow, Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability 

Resilient Regenerated Forests with Slash Walls 

Description: The pressure of deer browsing and competition from interfering vegetation impair our ability to regenerate species rich, productive, and well-stocked forests that diversify the age- and size-structure of forests on the landscape. Slash walls were developed at Cornell’s Arnot Forest in 2017, and now include more than 25 slash walls and 70,000 feet of slash wall perimeter on about 600 acres. Slash walls result in increased species richness, greater stem density, faster seedling growth, improved stocking and occupancy by desired species, and reduced reliance on herbicides as compared to traditional forest harvesting methods. 

Presenters:

– Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell Unviersity
– Brett Chedzoy, Senior Resource Educator, CCE Schuyler 

Track: Natural Resources

Session 8
Thursday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room A/B

“OutdoorRx – Therapeutic Recreation and Land Restoration for Veterans, First-responders, and Others with Trauma Injuries.” 

Description: There is a robust literature on the value and role of nature interaction and individual health and wellness. Among the myriad possibilities for interacting with nature are outdoor recreation activities explicitly linked with habitat restoration. Recent work conducted in collaboration between CCE, CALS DNRE, and affiliated NGOs has documented how these activities promote health and well-being while enhancing protective factors against mental illness for those with post traumatic stress injuries. Come learn about how your program and County Association can get involved in OutdoorsRx! 

Presenter:

– Keith Tidball, Ph.D., Sr. Ext. Assoc., Asst. Dir., Environment & Natural Resources, CALS

Track: Natural Resources

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Farm to Institution Across NYS 

Description: The Harvest NY Farm to Institution team will provide an overview of their work across the state in supporting procurement with a variety of partners, including school districts, agencies, and others. There will be a discussion of the regulations and resources available to support this work, how to connect with both your regional or local farm to school educator, and how to leverage existing work. 

Presenter:

– Cheryl Bilinski, Farm to Institution Statewide Coordinator, Harvest NY 

Track: Regional & Local Food Systems

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Value-Added Production for Growers as Diversification Strategy 

Description: Many within CCE are supporting agricultural operations who fall into one of these categories: direct marketers, agritourism or those pursing value-added production as their sole business function. This session will provide an overview of the role that CCE plays in this space, as well as hear from integral partners in the small-scale food processing space across NYS. We will then have a discussion on opportunities for collaboration and product development for channels such as TASTE NY and Farm to Institution. 

Presenter:

– Amy Willis, Director of Food Systems Projects, Cornell Cooperative Extension Broome County
– Flip Filippi, Local Foods Program Leader, Cornell Cooperative Extension St. Lawrence County
– Sarah Hartmann, Owner/Operator, Vesucre & The Makery
– Paul Guglielmo, Owner/CEO, Craft Cannery 

Track: Regional & Local Food Systems

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Food Safety & Food Security in a Local & Regional Food System

Description: This session will explore the connections between production and market channels, such as farmers markets, in conjunction with food insecurity efforts, such as food donation or composting programs, and CCE programs which support one, or all of these, focal points. We will also receive an overview of many of the regulatory programs which producers must engage with when participating in production, processing, or food insecurity programs. These could include: Good Agricultural Practices, USDA Dairy Inspection, USDA Meat Inspections, HAACP, SQF & NY Grown & Certified Program 

Presenter:

– Liz Higgins, Agricultural Business Management Specialist, Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Team
– Linnea Haskin, Community Food Systems Educator, Cornell Cooperative Extension Chautauqua
– Ruby Koch-Fienberg, Agriculture and Food Systems Coordinator, Cornell Cooperative Extension Putnam County
– Elisabeth Hodgdon, Vegetable Production Extension Associate, Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Team

Track: Regional & Local Food Systems

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room D/E

Highlights on Supporting Our Agricultural Workforce: How to work with the Cornell Ag Workforce Development Program & 4-H Ag Workforce Roundtable highlighting programs across the state 

Description:  This session will feature a panel from the Cornell Ag Workforce Development Program and 4-H and will highlight a handful of programs across the state focused on how as a system we are supporting all facets of the agricultural workforce – from our 4-H youth to farms experiencing growth and needing to bring on paid labor. We will brainstorm how to address communication barriers and challenges in engaging with these programs and their staff. And we will discuss how to create stronger connections between CCE, these programs and industry partners.

Presenter:

– Victoria Giarratano, Assistant Director –Agriculture, Food Systems and Community Development, Cornell Cooperative Extension
– Dr. Richard Stup, Senior Extension Associate, Cornell Ag Workforce Development Program
– Jay Canzonier, Extension Support Specialist, Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development Program
– Dr. Mingla Charoenmuang, NYS 4-H Health, Wellness, and Food Systems Specialist
– Alexa Maille, Director, NYS 4-H Youth Development 

Track: Regional & Local Food Systems

Session 1
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 pm – 2:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Collaborating to Support Small Farms

Description: Join the Cornell Small Farms Program team to discuss what emerging issues small-scale farmers are facing and how we can collectively work to support small farms across the state. This session will cover our projects, resources, online courses, and other updates from the program. We will share new ways to engage with our work, as well as how to utilize our outreach platforms to connect with farmers. A panel of Cornell Small Farms Program project leaders will share about the program’s work, and small group discussions will dive deeper into collaboration efforts across the state.

Presenter:

– Cornell Small Farms Program Team (https://smallfarms.cornell.edu/about/#staff)

Track: Small Farms

Session 2
Tuesday, November 18
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Growing New Farmers: Beginning Farmer Development in a Changing Landscape

Description: In light of changing federal support for beginning farmer (BF) development,  what programs and resources do we have across the state and how do we collaborate differently going forward? In this session we will map the different BF training programs around the state, review what curricula and resources are available to support this audience, consider our changing roles in supporting BFs in the age of AI, and explore how we might more effectively track progress of new farmers over time.  A panel of experienced BF educators will share their approaches for building successful new farmer programs followed by discussion of educator needs to continue BF education across the state.

Presenters:

– Anu Rangarajan, Director, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Stephen Hadcock, Beginning Farmer and Market Development, CCE Albany
– Laura Biasillo, Agriculture Economic Development Specialist, CCE Broome
– Nina Saeli, Veterans Project Associate, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Myron Thurston

Track: Small Farms

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Farmer-Centered Organizations: The Role of Cooperatives & Collaboratives in NY Ag

Description: NY agriculture has a long history with agricultural cooperatives.  Today, interest in formal and informal grower cooperatives and collaboratives is remerging, particularly with new and diverse farmers. What can we learn from examples of those cooperatives that have thrived versus failed? What are interesting new examples of farmer collaboratives or cooperatives? What are the resources available to support the design, development, implementation and evaluation of such structures?  What skills are needed to support farmers in consideration of a group organization?  

Presenters:

– Todd Schmit, Professor, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Nicole Tommell, Extension Associate, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Mildred Alvarado, Futuro en Ag Coordinator, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Anu Rangarajan, Director, Cornell Small Farms Program

Track: Farm Business Management, Small Farms

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Building Trusting Relationships with Diverse Farmer Communities

Description: Building from last year’s conversation, this session will discuss how to engage more effectively with diverse farmer communities, including veterans, Spanish-first farmers, and farmers from a variety of identities and backgrounds. We share real-life experiences from the field, highlighting practical strategies for building and restoring relationships, and recognizing the importance of intersecting identities. Through guest stories, small-group discussions, and interactive activities, participants will gain concrete ideas and tools to strengthen trust with the farmers they serve.

Presenters:

– Mildred Alvarado, Futuro en Ag Coordinator, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Nina Saeli, Veterans Project Lead, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Crystal Stewart, Regional Vegetable Specialist, Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Program
– Violet Stone, Growing Together Project Coordinator, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Ethan Grundberg, Vegetable Specialist, CCE Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture

Track: Small Farms

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Urban Agriculture’s Role in Generating Ecological Novelty and Supporting Rare Species 

Description: Recent research has shown that small urban green spaces can play major roles in supporting unique forms of biodiversity. These green spaces, including community and residential gardens, vacant lots, and more are largely undervalued in their importance for biodiversity conservation. In this session we’ll talk about recent evidence for urban gardens as biodiversity reservoirs, actions you can take to support unique forms of biodiversity in your gardens, and some future projects that are starting across the region. 

Presenter:

– Aaron Sexton, Assistant Professor, Cornell University, School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Horticulture Section 

Track: Horticulture, Urban Agriculture

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

What Sets Urban Soils Apart? 

Description: Urban soils can be complicated and unique, often needing a distinct approach to soil testing, remediation, and pest management. This workshop will offer ideas for how to meet these challenges head on, featuring examples from Buffalo, Rochester, and New York City. 

Presenters:

– Sam Anderson, Urban Agriculture Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Mallory Hohl, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Regina Clinton, Community & Urban IPM Specialist, Cornell Integrated Pest Management

Track: Urban Agriculture

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Innovative Mushroom Production 

Description: This hands-on session will introduce common mushroom cultivation methods and discuss status of economic viability, sustainability, and research developments of mushroom production in New York State. There will be a log inoculation demonstration and examples of other growing techniques. We will share CCE mushroom resources and explore how educators can offer mushroom programming in their local area. 

Presenters:

– Yolanda Gonzalez, Urban Agriculture Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Connor Youngerman, Agroforestry & Mushroom Specialist, Cornell Small Farms Program

Track: Urban Agriculture

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Funding Opportunities and Resources for Urban Growers to Small Farm Operations 

Description: Learn about resources available to support urban agriculture and community gardening efforts across NYS. This session focuses on strengthening the relationship between CCE educators and urban producers by connecting them to meaningful resources. We will provide information on available funding opportunities, engagement strategies, and business planning in this session. 

Presenters:

– Makela Elvy, CCE Community Garden Leadership Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Steven Affat, NYS Dept. Agriculture and Markets
– Aileen Randolph, NY Farm Viability Institute 

Track: Urban Agriculture

Session 8
Thursday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Project Updates in Vegetables and Urban Agriculture

Description: Lightning round session on program and research updates with an emphasis on topics applicable at all levels of production from community to commercial. Topics include innovative weed management techniques; strawberry production challenges and opportunities; brassica insect disease interactions; leveraging artificial intelligence; soil amendment synergies; and tarping and row cover practicality considerations. 

Presenters:  

– Bryan Brown, Integrated Weed Management Specialist, Cornell IPM – “Achilles Heels of the Top 5 Weeds found in Urban and Vegetable Farm Seedbanks” 

– Anya Stansell, Small Fruit Extension Specialist, Harvest NY- “Challenges and Opportunities in Small- Scale Strawberry Production” 

– Dominique Holtappels, Assistant Professor, SIPS – “Vector or Visitor? Slug Attraction to Black Rot in Brassicas”   

– Maryellen Sheehan, Agriculture/Ag Economic Development Resource Educator, CCE Madison – “Awesome tools? Practicalities of Tarps, Row Covers, and Other Cropping Techniques” 

– Kyle Karnuta, Urban Agriculture Curriculum Development Specialist, Harvest NY- “This time, it’s personal: leveraging artificial intelligence to focus on high impact work” 

– Kwesi Joseph, Urban Gardens Specialist, Harvest NY – “The Nutrient Economy – How to Make Your Soil and Plants Rich” 

Track: Urban Agriculture, Vegetables

Special Topics Session
Tuesday, November 18
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet F

Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) Session

Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Pesticides

Update on Cornell Guideline Reimagining Project

Description: This session will have 2 parts. Part 1 will be an overview of how EPA’s new ESA mitigation strategies will affect pesticide use in the future. Part 2 will provide an update on the Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guideline Reimagining project.

Presenter:

– Mike Helms, Pesticide Safety Education Program Leader, Cornell IPM

Session 1 & 2
Tuesday, November 18
12:30 – 4:00 pm
Offsite

Optional, Offsite Team-Building Event for Veg PWT

While not a formal part of in-service, we will be hosting a team-building event for Veg PWT members who will be in town on Tuesday afternoon. We will be off-site for fun activities like bowling, low-key hiking, or similar.   

Coordinator(s): Elizabeth Buck & Margie Lund  

Session 3
Wednesday, November 19
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Farmer-Centered Organizations: The Role of Cooperatives & Collaboratives in NY Ag

Description: NY agriculture has a long history with agricultural cooperatives.  Today, interest in formal and informal grower cooperatives and collaboratives is remerging, particularly with new and diverse farmers. What can we learn from examples of those cooperatives that have thrived versus failed? What are interesting new examples of farmer collaboratives or cooperatives? What are the resources available to support the design, development, implementation and evaluation of such structures?  What skills are needed to support farmers in consideration of a group organization?  

Presenter:

– Todd Schmit, Professor, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Nicole Tommell, Extension Associate, Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University
– Anu Rangarajan, Director, Cornell Small Farm Program

Track: Farm Business Management, Small Farms, Vegetables

Session 4
Wednesday, November 19
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 1st Floor – Meeting Room C

Digital On-Farm Experimentation + Weed Research Updates in NY Field Crops

Description: This session will be shared between the Farmers Datalab program and the Sustainable Weed Management lab. The Farmers Datalab will present new tools facilitating the collaboration between farmers and scientists and will give updates on the latest on-farm experimentation campaign. The Sustainable Weed Management lab will present latest updates on the status of herbicide-resistant weeds in NY and chemical/non-chemical weed control research in NY field crops. 

Presenter:

– Louis Longchamps, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Alex Yore, Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University
– Vipan Kumar, Associate Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University

Track: Field Crops, Vegetables

Session 5
Wednesday, November 19
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet E

Building Resilience Across CCE Vegetable Programming 

Description:

We’ll use break-out groups to work through some strategic planning and solution building related to current programming and system challenges. Topics include: 

– Status update regarding funding opportunities  

– How to tighten collaboration and reduce competition 

– Avoiding burnout 

– Supporting county staff in developing vegetable skillsets  

– Rethinking programming approaches 

Presenters:

– Elizabeth Buck, Extension Associate, Cornell Vegetable Program
– Maryellen Sheehan, Agriculture and Horticulture Resource Educator, CCE Madison County
– Margie Lund, Extension Associate, Cornell Vegetable Program
– Chris Smart, Prof. Plant Pathology, CALS

Track: Vegetables

Session 6
Wednesday, November 19
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet E

New Faculty: Project Presentations & Grower Needs Input 

Description: New faculty working in veg crops will give short overviews of recent research results. We’ll use the last half hour to discuss grower needs and opportunities for their research programs to help meet those needs. 

Presenters:

– T. Casey Barickman, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell University – Vegetable Crop Physiology   

– Collins Bugingo, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Horticulture Section, Cornell AgriTech – Seed Biology and Technology 

– Daniel Heck, Senior Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science, Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section, Cornell University – Downy Mildew Management Update 

– Yun Yang, Assistant Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, Soil and Crop Sciences Section. Cornell University – Evapotranspiration and Water Use  

Track: Vegetables

Session 7
Thursday, November 20
8:30 am – 12:00 pm
Offsite

Vegetable Pathology Faculty Candidate Interview 

Description: It is anticipated that there will be an interview for the new vegetable pathology faculty position in Geneva on Nov. 20. As a part of that process, Vegetable PWT members are invited and encouraged to attend the candidate’s Extension Seminar (10am – 11am) and Stakeholder Discussion (11am-12pm) taking place in A134 Baron Lab, Cornell AgriTech, Geneva. Transportation will not be provided, carpooling from Ithaca is suggested.

Track: Vegetables

Session 8
Thursday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 2nd Floor – Banquet D

Project Updates in Vegetables and Urban Agriculture

Description: Lightning round session on program and research updates with an emphasis on topics applicable at all levels of production from community to commercial. Topics include innovative weed management techniques; strawberry production challenges and opportunities; brassica insect disease interactions; leveraging artificial intelligence; soil amendment synergies; and tarping and row cover practicality considerations. 

Presenters:  

– Bryan Brown, Integrated Weed Management Specialist, Cornell IPM – “Achilles Heels of the Top 5 Weeds found in Urban and Vegetable Farm Seedbanks” 

– Anya Stansell, Small Fruit Extension Specialist, Harvest NY- “Challenges and Opportunities in Small- Scale Strawberry Production” 

– Dominique Holtappels, Assistant Professor, SIPS – “Vector or Visitor? Slug Attraction to Black Rot in Brassicas”   

– Maryellen Sheehan, Agriculture/Ag Economic Development Resource Educator, CCE Madison – “Awesome tools? Practicalities of Tarps, Row Covers, and Other Cropping Techniques” 

– Kyle Karnuta, Urban Agriculture Curriculum Development Specialist, Harvest NY- “This time, it’s personal: leveraging artificial intelligence to focus on high impact work” 

– Kwesi Joseph, Urban Gardens Specialist, Harvest NY – “The Nutrient Economy – How to Make Your Soil and Plants Rich” 

Track: Urban Agriculture, Vegetables