Keynote & Luncheon
Keynote & Luncheon
Wednesday, November 20
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Ballroom, 2nd Floor, Statler Hotel
Humanizing our relationship to the food system: The Kelly Street Garden Story
Kelly Street Garden in the South Bronx stands as a successful model of urban agriculture. In this discussion, Sheryll and Bruce will share their experience and insights on how it came to be and what were the challenges. It is more than just about gardening. It is about engaging with a community. It is about discovering new purposes through urban agriculture and seeing how this work can have an impact on the future of our world beyond food sovereignty. Beyond environmental justice. Can this be a return to humanizing our relationship to our food system and to the planet and especially to each other?
Presenters:
– Sheryll Durrant, Resident Garden Manager, Kelly Street Garden
– Bruce Zeines, Program Manager, Kelly Street Garden
Sheryll Durrant is an urban farmer, educator, and food justice advocate. She is the Food and Agriculture Coordinator for NY New Roots Program, of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), and has been the Resident Garden Manager at Kelly Street Garden since 2016. Her work has included developing community-based urban agriculture projects, and providing expertise and technical assistance for gardens within supportive housing developments. She currently serves as Board President for Just Food and is the New York City Farm Service Agency Urban County Committee Chairperson. Sheryll has led workshops and spoken on issues related to urban agriculture for many key organizations, and was part of the 2019-2020 HEAL School of Political Leadership. As a former Design Trust fellow for the Farming Concrete project, she is now responsible for communications and outreach for the data collection platform that helps urban farmers and gardeners measure their impact. Previously, Sheryll spent over 20 years in corporate and institutional marketing.
Bruce Zeines is the General Manager at Kelly Street Garden in the South Bronx. He manages all administrative and creative aspects of the garden overseeing all grant requests, balancing the budget and innovating programming. Since he became Program Manager, the garden has hosted over 100 workshops since 2021.He has 40 years in advertising and design, having worn the hats of an art director, graphic designer, illustrator, letterer, and photo retoucher depending on what was needed at the moment. He is happy not to be any of those things anymore. He is a committed artist, musician and writer. He has been an education activist helping to start one of the most radical institutions of learning in NYC in the past 20 years—The Brooklyn Free School. His motto is “All life is art.” He is a father of 3 and grandfather of 2 and he has been married to Sheryll Durrant for over 20 years.
New Educators, Networking, Dinners
The Real Dirt: Surviving and Thriving as New Ag Educator
Tuesday, November 19
4:30 – 6:00 pm
Location: G10 Biotechnology Building
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, complete with Cornell Ice Cream 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.
NYS Association of County Ag Agents Dinner
Tuesday, November 19
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: 348 Morrison Hall – Turk Room
Open to all members and interested educators. Enjoy a dinner with colleagues, honor this year’s award winners and learn about recent work and opportunities within the Association. $20 – advance registration required.
Networking Event
Wednesday, November 20
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Atrium & G10 Biotechnology Building
Join us to mingle with old and new colleagues. Light snacks will be provided. A wine & beer bar will be available (credit card only, no cash accepted).
Dairy & Ag Educators Meet & Greet
Wednesday, November 20
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Location: Best Western University Inn, 1020 Ellis Hollow Road (East Hill Plaza), Ithaca, NY 14850
This event is geared specifically for educators to get together and interact in a relaxed, informal environment. Pizza, wings, beverages and relaxed conversation. Cost $15. Limited by room size to 40 people.
Energy Expo
Energy Expo
Wednesday, November 20
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Ag Quad, Cornell University
Come learn about great innovations to de-carbonize our lives!
– Featuring fossil-fuel-free equipment, tools, & management strategies in NY!
– Connecting the most energy efficient technologies, current incentives, and technical support to de-carbonize homes, landscapes, farms, municipalities, and businesses.
Types of Vendors
EV Cars & Trucks
Weatherization
Electric Landscaping
AI Lawnmowers
Heat Pumps
Home Battery BackUp
Precision Drones
Rooftop Solar
Low-cost Window Retrofits
Community Power
Electric Tools
Insulation Strategies
Electric Backhoes
PowerHouse Education Tool
State and Local Community Organizations to help us all get there!
Ag Solar
Session 1
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Solar Energy, Agriculture, and Land Use Change in New York State
Description: Agriculture is a vital and economically important land use in New York State. However, there is increasing competition for converting agricultural land to solar energy to help meet the state’s ambitious climate goals including net zero electricity production by 2040. To help inform decision making at all levels, we have conducted new statewide geospatial analysis to answer important questions on the impact of utility scale solar on agriculture including, how much land has converted to solar to date and how much was removed from agricultural production, and other vital questions.
Presenter:
– Peter Woodbury, Senior Research Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science Soil and Crop Sciences Section
Track: Ag Solar
Session 2
Tuesday, November 19
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Large-scale Solar Leasing and Future Land-use in Rural New York State
Description: New York State (NYS) is on the leading edge of the renewable energy transition with legislation that set a state-wide goal to generate 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The energy transition requires siting large-scale solar (LSS) facilities, some of which cover thousands of acres of mostly rural land. Drawing on a web/mail survey of rural landowners (n=1500, 42% response rate) in three regions of NYS, we explore the potential for rural land-use change in NYS, specifically how solar siting may impact land currently used for agriculture. We examine LSS perceptions, leasing opportunities, and lease negotiation priorities and ultimately gain insight into how farmland owners may behave with respect to their future agricultural practices due to solar revenue.
Presenter:
– Kathryn Bills Walsh, Ph.D., Research Associate, Lab Supervisor, Center for Conservation Social Sciences, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University
– Richard Stedman, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Natural Resources and the Environment
– David Kay, Senior Extension Associate, Department of Global Development
Track: Ag Solar
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Solar Farms and Agrivoltaics: Understanding the impacts on soil, water and ecosystem services
Description: The rapid expansion of solar farms affords new opportunities for income generation and helping NYS reach its climate goals. Many solar farms take active farm land out of production, but it is still unclear whether this is a positive or negative development. We will discuss the effects of different solar panel designs and their impacts of soil and water, as well as opportunities around agrivoltaics.
Presenter:
– Harold van Es, Professor, SIPS, Cornell and Michael Glos, Research Support Specialist, SIPS, Cornell
Track: Ag Solar
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Logistical Issues Integrating Agricultural Production into Solar Arrays
Description: Combining crop and solar production in New York is a new research area that Cornell is exploring. This co-location of agriculture and solar arrays presents some unique logistical challenges. Caroline Marschner from Soil and Crop Sciences will present on lessons learned and practical considerations for developing an agrivoltiac plan for a New York farm. Henry Williams from Engineering will present on agrivoltaic modeling approaches and findings from preliminary design studies.
Presenter:
– Caroline Marschner, Extension Associate, Soil and Crop Sciences, Cornell University
– Henry Williams, PhD Candidate, Sibley School of Engineering, Cornell University
Track: Ag Solar
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Ag Solar Issues — An Open Discussion
Description: New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection act requires that 70% of its electric supply come through renewable sources by 2030. A key strategy to achieve that goal is the dual use of land in solar facilities for agriculture. Across the state Cornell faculty and CCE staff are implementing dual use research projects, working with elected officials integrate these facilities into their communities and providing guidance to farmers and landowners considering leasing their land for these projects. This panel will discuss the current state of agrivoltaics and discuss where we are today as the state faces the 2030 timeline.
Presenter:
– Garet Livermore, Executive Director, Herkimer CCE
– Guillermo Metz, Energy Team Leader, Tompkins CCE
– David Kay, Senior Extension Associate, Cornell University
Track: Ag Solar
Agritourism
Session 1
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Agritourism Resources & Support Across the System
Description: Come and learn about the many resources available to support agritourism operations across NYS. These include a newly released online curriculum for agritourism operators, the on-going webinar series with accompanying fact sheets, and the statewide website hosted by Harvest NY. We will also provide an overview of the newly created statewide plan of work guiding agritourism work for educators.
Presenters:
– Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, CCE Broome
– Lindsey Pashow, Agricultural Business & Marketing Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
Track: Agritourism
Session 2
Tuesday, November 19
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Updates from the Field: Hear About the Summer Regional Networking Sessions and How This Model Can Be Used to Create Stronger Relationships with Your Local Tourism Promotion Authorities
Description: In the summer of 2024 four regional networking events occurred focused on connecting agritourism operations with their local and regional tourism promotion authorities and agritourism resources. We’ll hear from representatives for each of the events on their lessons learned, the format and logistics they utilized, and outcomes. Then we’ll facilitate a larger group discussion around how this model can be used to create stronger relationships with your local Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA).
Presenter:
– Mellissa Spence, Sustainable Agriculture Educator, CCE Lewis
– Janet Oppedisano, Ag Team Leader, CCE Onondaga
– Uliana Ahashkova, Agricultural Economic Development Educator, CCE Ulster
– Jarmila Haseler, Agriculture & Food Systems Educator, CCE Monroe
Track: Agritourism
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Branding & Marketing Campaigns for Buy Local Efforts & Agritourism
Description: Join us for a discussion led by Molly McManus, Agritourism & Marketing Coordinator with CCE Broome County, focused on branding and marketing campaigns across the state led by CCE associations or teams for buy local or agritourism efforts. We’ll hear what it took to set them up, their focus and components, and their impact. Then we’ll open it up for discussion on potential for more regional efforts or other synergies.
Presenters:
– Molly McManus, Agritourism & Marketing Coordinator, CCE Broome County
– Garet Livermore, Executive Director, CCE Herkimer
– Mary Godnick, Adirondack Harvest Program Leader, CCE Essex
– Melinda Meddaugh, Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader, CCE Sullivan
Tracks: Agritourism, Regional & Local Food Systems
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Open Farm Days Across the State
Description: This session will explore the many CCE supported open farm day experiences across the state. The first half of the session we will hear from three panelist on their experiences of planning, recruiting farms, funding, and reporting. The second half will be working session that everyone will be able to share experiences of hosting these events from across the state.
Presenters:
– Laura Biasillo (CCE Broome)
– Sarah Rosenthal (CCE Madison)
– Janet Thomas Oppedisano (CCE Onondaga)
Tracks: Agritourism
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Stories from the Field: How to Put Together an Effective Consumer Buy Local Event
Description: Buy local events such as “Meat the Farmer” have become more popular since the pandemic. But how do you get farmer buy-in and consumer attendance that create an impactful experience for both sides? Join this panel of CCE educators as they describe events they held in 2024, their outreach process and partners, lessons learned, and their plans for future events. Gather ideas for how to implement a successful program in 2025!
Presenters:
– Amy Barkely, Livestock Specialist, Southwest NY Dairy, Livestock & Field Crops Team
– Jacob Maslyn, Agricultural Economic Development Educator, CCE Ontario
– Uliana Ahashkova, Agricultural Economic Development Educator, CCE Ulster
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems, Agritourism
Climate
Session 10
Thursday, November 21
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Climate Talks – Lunch and Learn – 12:00 – 2:30 pm
Description: Join us at 12:00 for a lunch and series of 30 minute climate talks.
12:30 pm – Update on Climate Change Projections and Ag Decision Tools for NYS – Art DeGaetano, Cornell Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
1:00 pm – Overview of Ruminant Diet Formulation to Improve Feed Efficiency and Reduce Carbon and Nitrogen Losses – Mike VanAmburgh, Cornell Animal Science
1:30 pm – Ag Carbon Markets 101 – Jessica Langley, Athian, Inc.
2:00 pm – Adding Trees to Pastures – the Other Path to Silvopasture – Erica Frenay, Cornell Small Farms, and Joshua Greene, Trees for Graziers
Track: Climate
Dairy
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
Dung Beetles, Pasture Flies & Ticks
Subtitle: Update on Dung Beetles and Pasture Flies
Description: We will present the findings of our study, “Survey and Testing the Effects of Feed-Through Insecticides on Adult and Offspring Dung Beetles in Cattle Pastures Across NYS.” This presentation will detail the impact of insecticides on dung beetles within manure pats with pastured beef. Additionally, we will discuss the efficacy of the larvicide in controlling fly populations and assess whether these measures keep fly populations below action thresholds.
Presenter:
– Ken Wise, IPM Coordinator, Dairy & Livestock, NYS IPM
Subtitle: Tick (S)Tock: The increasing Risk of Ticks on Livestock
Description: Ticks have been on the rise in New York and a new tick in town is raising the stakes even further. NYSIPM’s Joellen Lampman will discuss what we know about the impacts of ticks and tick-borne diseases on livestock in New York, steps being taken to learn more, and what we might do to mitigate risks for our stock and ourselves.
Presenter:
– Joellen Lampman, Community IPM Extension Support Specialist, NYS IPM
Tracks: Livestock; Dairy
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
PRO-LIVESTOCK & From Moo to Measurement
Subtitle: PRO-LIVESTOCK Specialists Update, Educator Sharing and Open Discussion
Description: Provide feedback for our statewide specialists and open discussion time.
Presenter:
– Jess Waltemyer, NYS Small Ruminant Extension Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK, Animal Science
Subtitle: From Moo to Measurement: Investigating Enteric Methane with Cutting-Edge Technology
Description: Ananda is currently a Postdoctoral Associate at the Department of Animal Science at Cornell working under the supervision of Dr. Mike Van Amburgh, working with the recently constructed respiration chambers.
Presenter:
– Ananda Fontoura, graduate student, Department of Animal Science
Tracks: Livestock; Dairy
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
Rules, Regs, and Resources
Sub-title: USDA Final Decision on Federal Milk Marketing Orders and Farm Implications
Description: The USDA finished a 5-month hearing process on Federal Milk Marketing Orders in early 2024. Five major changes were made to FMMOs that will be voted on and implemented in the coming months. The changes included: updated milk composition factors, increased make allowances, dropping barrel cheese prices from the surveyed products, returning to the “higher of” price for Class I skim milk, and increased Class I price differentials across the country. This presentation will discuss these changes and their implications for farm milk prices.
Presenter:
– Chris Wolf, Professor, Dyson School
Sub-title: Helping Farm Employers Comply with Labor Laws
Description: This session will include key resources that CCE educators should have to help farm employers of all sizes get into compliance with federal and state labor laws. We will review the most relevant and helpful tools, common questions from employers, and resources to address those questions. In addition, there will be a brief update on changes to current labor laws.
Presenter:
– Rich Stup, Specialist, Agricultural Workforce Development Program
Tracks: Farm Management & Food Sector Economics; Dairy
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Livestock Mortality Management & Nutrient Management Spear Program
Subtitle: Livestock Mortality Management
Description: Jason Oliver, Kirsten Workman and Jean Bonhotel will address effective methods for managing livestock mortality within the new livestock mortality and burial requirements.
Presenters:
– Kirsten Workman, Senior Extension Associate, Nutrient Management & Environmental Sustainability Specialist, Cornell PRO-DAIRY
– Jason Oliver, Sr. Extension Associate & Dairy Environmental Systems Engineer, Cornell PRO-DAIRY
– Jean Bonhotal, Cornell Waste Management Institute, Dept. of Crop and Soil Sciences, Cornell University
Subtitle: Nutrient Management Spear Program Dairy Research Update
Description: Dr. Ketterings will give an update on the research being done in the Spear program. The Spear program focuses on improving the understanding of nutrient release and risk for runoff and leaching losses from inorganic and organic amendments as affected by soil type, hydrology, time and rate of application, and the use of specific soil and fertilizer amendments.
Presenter:
– Dr. Quirine Ketterings, Professor of Nutrient Management, Nutrient Management Spear Program (NMSP), Department of Animal Science, Cornell University
Track: Dairy
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Meeting the Management Needs and Strategic Objectives of Large Dairy Farms
Description: Large dairies operate on a different scale compared to smaller farms, and their needs and strategies can be quite distinct. These large farms require scalable solutions that can be adapted as the operations grows. In this session farm owners discuss challenges, successes, and opportunities they face. You will learn how large dairies manage labor, human resources, risk management, and marketing. By understanding these aspects, service providers can better support large dairy operations, helping them navigate their unique challenges and leverage their opportunities for success.
Presenter:
– Dairy farmer panel moderated by Greg Mruk, Executive Director, NY FarmNet
Track: Farm Management & Food Sector Economics; Dairy
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Bedding Management’s Impact & Measuring the Impact of Online Training
Subtitle: Bedding Management’s Impact on Udder Health
Description: Dr. Mosca will discuss the projects he is currently involved in that study bedding management and its impact on udder health, new approaches for mastitis diagnosis, and treatment in conventional and organic dairy farms.
Presenter:
– Felipe Peña Mosca DVM, MSc, PhD, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine
Subtitle: Measuring the Impact of Online Training for Dairy Employees
Description: Dr Heuwieser will provide an overview of a study he conducted on the effectiveness of using E-learning methods for dairy farm worker milking equipment training.
Presenter:
– Wolfgang Heuwieser, DVM. PhD, Director, Quality Milk Production Services, Professor, Population Medicine & Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Track: Dairy
Farm Management & Food Sector Economics
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
Rules, Regs, and Resources
Subtitle: USDA Final Decision on Federal Milk Marketing Orders and Farm Implications
Description: The USDA finished a 5-month hearing process on Federal Milk Marketing Orders in early 2024. Five major changes were made to FMMOs that will be voted on and implemented in the coming months. The changes included: updated milk composition factors, increased make allowances, dropping barrel cheese prices from the surveyed products, returning to the “higher of” price for Class I skim milk, and increased Class I price differentials across the country. This presentation will discuss these changes and their implications for farm milk prices.
Presenters:
– Chris Wolf, Professor, Dyson School
Subtitle: Helping Farm Employers Comply with Labor Laws
Description: This session will include key resources that CCE educators should have to help farm employers of all sizes get into compliance with federal and state labor laws. We will review the most relevant and helpful tools, common questions from employers, and resources to address those questions. In addition, there will be a brief update on changes to current labor laws.
Presenter:
– Rich Stup, Specialist, Agricultural Workforce Development Program
Tracks: Farm Management & Food Economics; Dairy
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Business Succession: Four Key Areas and Available Resources
Description: Important questions need to be answered before a business is transferred to the next owner. Is the business worth transferring, who to transfer to, how to transfer management, and how to transfer ownership are four key areas associated with successful business succession. These four areas will be discussed and resources useful to extension educators and their audiences will be reviewed during this session.
Presenters:
– Greg Mruk, Executive Director, NYFarmNet
– Jason Karszes, Sr. Extension Associate, ProDairy
Track: Farm Management & Food Sector Economics
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Meeting the Management Needs and Strategic Objectives of Large Dairy Farms
Description: Large dairies operate on a different scale compared to smaller farms, and their needs and strategies can be quite distinct. These large farms require scalable solutions that can be adapted as the operations grows. In this session farm owners discuss challenges, successes, and opportunities they face. You will learn how large dairies manage labor, human resources, risk management, and marketing. By understanding these aspects, service providers can better support large dairy operations, helping them navigate their unique challenges and leverage their opportunities for success.
Presenters:
– Dairy farmer panel moderated by Greg Mruk, Executive Director, NY FarmNet
Tracks: Farm Management & Food Sector Economics; Dairy
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Food Marketing Decision Making: From Farm Markets to Public Food Procurement
Subtitle: The Importance of Point-of-Sale Systems for Direct Marketing Farmers
Description: Research results will be shared from point-of-sale transaction data to help farmers better understand consumer behavior and suggest needed changes to improve customer satisfaction leading to increased profitability when selling at farmers markets. Educators will then “tour” farmers market research webpages and price reports.
Presenters:
– Matt LeRoux, Extension Associate, Dyson School
– Luca Rigotti, Research Support Specialist, Dyson School
Subtitle: Practical Incorporation of the True Cost of Food in Public Food Procurement Decision Making
Description: Aggregate dollars spent on public food procurement paid through taxpayer dollars appears costly until the economic benefits to backward-linked industries is examined. This presentation highlights the costs and benefits and implications for public policy.
Presenter:
– Todd M. Schmit, Professor, Dyson School
Track: Farm Management & Food Sector Economics
Field Crops
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Nutrient Management Update
Description: The NMSP will provide updates on the latest research outcomes.
Presenter:
– Quirine Ketterings, Professor, Animal Science and team
Track: Field Crops
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Weed Control Research Updates and Biologicals On-Farm Experimentation in NY Field Crops
Description: Vipan Kumar will provide 2024 Weed Control Research Update in NY Field Crops followed by Louis Longchamps who will discuss how digital agronomy can support farmer-led experimentation with an example for N-fixing biologicals.
Presenters:
– Vipan Kumar, Associate Professor, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
– Louis Longchamps, Assistant Professor, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
Track: Field Crops
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Soil health and cover crops
Description: Maximizing Benefits with Cover Crops; New NE Cover Crop Decision Support Tools; New Soil Health Benchmarks for NY Soils and Cropping Systems
Presenters:
– Joseph Amsilia, Extension Associate, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
– Kristen Loria, Extension Support Specialist I, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
Track: Field Crops, Vegetables, Horticulture
Session 10
Thursday, November 21
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Seedcorn Maggot Management Post-Neonics
Description: Research updates and discussion on alternative seed treatments and IPM strategies for pests previously managed with neonicotinoid insecticides.
Presenters:
– Ken Wise, Senior Extension Associate, CALS – CCE Integrated Pest Management, NYSIPM
– Mike Hunter, Senior Extension Associate, CALS – CCE Integrated Pest Management, NYSIPM
– Katja Poveda, Professor of Entomology, Cornell University
Track: Field Crops
Horticulture
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Strengthening Regional-County and Campus Connections
Description: This session is focused on laying the foundations for fruitful and mutually beneficial partnerships between faculty, county, and regional staff. We will network, discuss resource needs and opportunities, and interactively problem solve to address identified barriers.
Facilitator:
– Elizabeth Buck, Fresh Market Vegetable Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension
Tracks: Vegetables, Horticulture
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Responding to Community Garden Needs
Description: Community gardens are an invaluable community resource. There are approximately 3,000 community gardens across New York State whose combined efforts contribute to the resiliency of our local food system and building healthy, sustainable communities. However, working with community gardens takes significant thoughtfulness, clear communication and humility. In this session we will discuss important considerations for interacting with community gardens, and improving community engagement, and to hear advice from the community garden specialists on how to develop meaningful partnerships with community gardens.
Presenters:
– Makela Elvy, Community Garden Leadership Specialist, CCE
– Mike Kincaid, Director of Workforce Development, CCE Monroe County
– Mallory Hohl, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE
– Kwesi Joseph, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE
Tracks: Urban Agriculture, Horticulture
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Pesticides, IPM, and Risk & Update on Translating PSEP into Spanish
Subtitle: Pesticides, IPM, and Risk: Messaging Matters
Description: The goal of IPM is to effectively manage pests with the least risk. However, we all have a history of using messaging that is inconsistent with and often contradicts IPM itself, which can result in reduced pest control and increased risk for the people we serve. Everyone from Master Gardener volunteers to county Extension educators to statewide specialists can better help our clientele achieve IPM’s goals by recognizing and avoiding the messaging pitfalls this presentation will address.
Presenter:
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Subtitle: Update on Translating PSEP Materials and Applicator Certification Exams into Spanish
Description: We will discuss PSEP’s current and planned efforts to have outreach materials translated into Spanish. We will also discuss the progress regarding our work on a national level to determine whether and how states can translate applicator certification training manuals and exams, given that pesticide labels are primarily in English.
Presenters:
– Mike Helms, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Tracks: PSEP, Horticulture, Vegetables
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Sustainable Urban Landscapes Campus Tour with the Turf Team
Description: Join Carl Schimenti from the Cornell Turfgrass Program and Dan Schied, Grounds Director from Cornell University, to learn about the unique urban landscapes that serve as a living classroom at Cornell for ecosystem services. The Turf Team will lead a tour around central campus, discussing the levels of turf management deployed based on site use, visibility, and expectations. Information will be shared from a summer student project where environmental conditions, infiltration rates, and measures of functionality were routinely monitored and used to suggest site-specific maintenance practices. We’ll also explore sites on campus that use rain gardens, permeable pavers and road-side bioswales. Come dressed for all weather! If weather cooperates, this tour will occur outside, with a backup plan of an indoor slide show of sites due to inclement weather.
Presenters:
– Dan Schied, Grounds Director, Cornell University
– Carl Salvatore Schimenti, Extension Support Specialist, School of Integrative Plant Science Horticulture Section, Rossi Turfgrass Program, Cornell University
Track: Horticulture
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
“There’s a bug in my house!” Improving County Capacity to Help Residents with Indoor Pest Problems
Description: When insects, spiders, and rodents invade buildings, New Yorkers turn to CCE for unbiased and practical management solutions. This session will improve your capacity to respond to questions by providing a framework for addressing structural pest issues. IPM educators will then share pertinent details you should know to help clients deal with common pests.
Presenters:
– Matt Frye, Community IPM Extension Educator, NYS Integrated Pest Management, Cornell University
– Jody Gangloff-Kaufmann, Senior Extension Associate, NYS Integrated Pest Management, Cornell University
Track: Horticulture
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
A World Cafe Event: Discussing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in Your Master Gardener Program
Description: This world cafe methodology is a simple, effective and flexible format for hosting large group dialogue. This dialogue can serve as a blueprint for thinking through our volunteer makeup, policies and cultures. When it comes to serving all aspects of our community, we need both understanding and information to close the gap between who we are and who we want to serve. Our goal is to serve people of all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic and racial backgrounds that benefit from gardening. Come discuss the strengths and opportunities for growth of your MGV group for diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Presenters:
– Ashley Helmholdt, Extension Associate, Cornell Garden-Based Learning, School of Integrative Plant Science Horticulture Section Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Susan Ndiaye, Community Horticulture Educator, CCE Orange County
Track: Horticulture
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Adventures in Composting – Stories and Science from Across the State
Description: Join Adam Michaelides, Compost Educator at CCE Tompkins, and Dr. Perl Egendorf, Assistant Professor at Pace University, to explore compost’s role in ecological gardening, climate resiliency, and building healthy soils through the perspectives of participatory research and extension/outreach programming. Participants will leave with an understanding of hands-on skills and tried and true strategies for compost learning and education, as well as how to successfully navigate available resources and common challenges. Learn what you can do to support composting in your community!
Presenters:
– Adam Michaelides, Compost Educator, CCE Tompkins
– Perl Egendorf, Assistant Professor, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Environmental Studies NYC, Pace University
Tracks: Horticulture, Urban Agriculture
Session 10
Thursday, November 21
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Planning for Plant Diversity with Climate-Smart Nursery Natives
Description: In this interactive workshop, Jenica Allen and Thomas Nuhfer from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst will share an upcoming resource identifying climate-resilient native garden plants for Northeastern states. The outreach materials bring together information about the ecological and gardening attributes of native species available for sale, lists of current natives or potential range-shifting (nearby) natives, and state-by-state information about suitable future climate for these species. The resource, which is designed for landscape professionals and home gardeners, relies on research synthesized from primary and secondary literature, reliable public databases, and original research from the Northeast Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management network (NE RISCC). The session will include a short presentation, hands-on practice using the new resource, and a discussion about navigating garden centers when shopping for native plants. Participants will leave more prepared to make informed choices to build diverse, climate-resilient garden plant communities.
Presenters:
– Jenica Allen, Senior Research Fellow, Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
– Thomas Nuhfer, PhD Student, University of Massachusetts Amherst
– Matthew Fertakos, PhD Candidate, University of Massachusetts Amherst
– Kabeera Singh, Research Technician, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Track: Horticulture
Livestock
Session 1
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center, King Shaw Hall
Secure Food Supply Program Planning & Climate Adaptation
Subtitle: Secure Food Supply Program Planning, Where to Start
Description: Discussion for educators to begin to assist farmers in preparing for a foreign animal disease. Learn how to help farmers step up their biosecurity. Assist farmers to apply for and receive premises ID.
Presenter:
– Jessica Waltemyer, Small Ruminant Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK
Subtitle: Climate Adaptation for Livestock Farms
Description: More farmers are thinking about climate change, are interested in learning about climate impacts, and are motivated to pursue climate adaptation and/or mitigation within their operation. As technical service providers who work with farmers, we need to strengthen our skillset to provide this climate-focused support.
Presenter:
– Kitty O’Neil, Ag Climate Resiliency Specialist, Harvest New York
Track: Livestock
Session 2
Tuesday, November 19
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center, King Shaw Hall
Horse Farm Improvement Plan & NYS Equine Updates
Subtitle: Horse Farm Improvement Plan, Case Study
Description: Do you get questions from horse farm owners? Would you like help finding all the current best management practices for equine operations? The Horse Farm Improvement Program (HFIP) is a Cornell-based resource for extension educators and horse farm managers in New York State. In this session you’ll hear an overview of the program, go through a farm case study together, and you’ll receive resources to utilize the HFIP in your county or region.
Presenter:
– Lindsay Goodale, Lecturer, Cornell Dept. of Animal Science
Subtitle: NYS Equine Laws, Regulations, and Policy Updates
Description: Horses play a key role in the economic impact for agriculture in NYS. This session will provide an overview of current regulations for things such as equine imports, tests, CVIs, and purchases from sales and dealers. In addition, we will cover policies and new NYS laws that may affect clientele in your county or region.
Presenters:
– Rebecca Mitchell, DVM with NYS Ag & Markets
– Katherine Slye-Hernandez, Senior Associate Director of Public Policy with NY Farm Bureau
Track: Livestock
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center, King Shaw Hall
Economic Return of Broilers, HPAI Update & Graduate Student Research Update
Subtitle: Economic Return of Pasture Raised Slow-Growth and Conventional Broilers, plus HPAI Update
Description: Raising broilers on pasture is a low cost, rapid return enterprise for small farms in NYS. However, previous research indicates that these farmers take significant losses on each bird that they sell. This project is following 34 farms across the state (136 individual flocks) to determine production efficiencies and explore ways to increase profitability of meat chickens. Two years into the three-year project, we are beginning to pull out themes, lessons learned, and have some average production and profitability numbers to share. This information can help educators guide producers looking to raise broilers both now and into the future.
Presenter:
– Amy Barkley, Livestock Specialist, SWNY Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Team
Subtitle: Graduate Student Research Update
Description: Hear from a poultry graduate student’s update on their current research project in Dr. Xingen Lei’s lab.
Presenter:
– Department of Animal Science graduate student.
Track: Livestock
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
Dung Beetles, Pasture Flies & Ticks
Subtitle: Update on Dung Beetles and Pasture Flies
Description: We will present the findings of our study, “Survey and Testing the Effects of Feed-Through Insecticides on Adult and Offspring Dung Beetles in Cattle Pastures Across NYS.” This presentation will detail the impact of insecticides on dung beetles within manure pats with pastured beef. Additionally, we will discuss the efficacy of the larvicide in controlling fly populations and assess whether these measures keep fly populations below action thresholds.
Presenter:
– Ken Wise, IPM Coordinator, Dairy & Livestock, NYS IPM
Subtitle: Tick (S)Tock: The increasing Risk of Ticks on Livestock
Description: Ticks have been on the rise in New York and a new tick in town is raising the stakes even further. NYSIPM’s Joellen Lampman will discuss what we know about the impacts of ticks and tick-borne diseases on livestock in New York, steps being taken to learn more, and what we might do to mitigate risks for our stock and ourselves.
Presenter:
– Joellen Lampman, Community IPM Extension Support Specialist, NYS IPM
Tracks: Livestock; Dairy
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
PRO-LIVESTOCK & From Moo to Measurement
Subtitle: PRO-LIVESTOCK Specialists Update, Educator Sharing and Open Discussion
Description: Provide feedback for our statewide specialists and open discussion time.
Presenters:
– Jess Waltemyer, NYS Small Ruminant Extension Specialist, PRO-LIVESTOCK, Animal Science
Subtitle: From Moo to Measurement: Investigating Enteric Methane with Cutting-Edge Technology
Description: Ananda is currently a Postdoctoral Associate at the Department of Animal Science at Cornell working under the supervision of Dr. Mike Van Amburgh, working with the recently constructed respiration chambers.
Presenter:
– Ananda Fontoura, graduate student, Department of Animal Science
Tracks: Livestock; Dairy
Natural Resources
Session 1 – 3
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Room: Field Day
Arnot Forest Field Day
Description: Detailed schedule to come.
Presenter:
– Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Senior Extension Associate, Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
Implementing Energy Conservation and Electrification Projects that Improve Air Quality, Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Conserve NYS Natural Resources
Description: In 2019, New York State passed ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigating legislation. Most of NYS’s greenhouse gas emissions come from combusting fossil fuels for heating, cooling, and transportation used in our personal and professional lives. Anything we can do in our local communities to reduce this fossil combustion improves our air quality, reduces GHG, and reduces the demand on rural landscapes to support renewable energy projects. Come join a panel of Extension, Community Organizers, and Technical Service Providers as we discuss opportunities that mobilize energy efficiency and electrification projects in our local communities to conserve our shared natural resources.
Panelists:
– Overview: Integrating Multiple NYS Goals to Conserve our Finite Landbase
Jenifer Wightman, Senior Extension Associate, Cornell University
– Weatherize Homes: Save Energy, GHG, & Money
Josh Randall, CCE-Niagara
– Efficiency Pilots: Life Changing Impact for Low Income Homeowners: Join a Manufactured Housing working group to help build policy in NYS
Danielle Eiseman, Health Impacts Core Partnerships Program Lead, Dept of Public and Ecosystem Health, Cornell University
– Electrify Landscaping Equipment: Save Money, Reduce Noise, and Improve Worker Health
tbd
– Audit Farm Energy Use: Access Technical Support & Grants
Gabriel Gurley, CCE-Tompkins
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
The Master Naturalist and Master Forest Owner Volunteer Programs
Description: Learn how these volunteer programs run through the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment can expand your capacity to accomplish your local natural resource programming goals.
Presenters:
– Kristi Sullivan, Director, NY Master Naturalist Program and Extension Associate, Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University
– Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Senior Extension Associate, Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Part I. Overview of Sustainable Water Resource Management
Description: This session will first provide an overview of how and why to use a watershed-based approach to managing for floods, droughts and water pollution. I will build on this foundation to summarize the strategy of improving roadside ditch management as a locally-based tool for increasing community resilience to climate extremes. Recent findings from our ongoing roadside ditch program will be presented.
Presenter:
– Rebecca Schneider, Ph.D., Assoc. Prof. Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, Cornell University
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Cold Water Fisheries Extension: How Can You Get Involved?
Description: Learn about CCE natural Resources and Environment resources, curriculum, tabling materials and more available to any county educators interested in cold water fisheries extension education. This session will be interactive and hands-on.
Presenters:
– Keith G. Tidball, PhD, CCE Assistant Director
– Jamila Page, Senior Issue Leader, CCE Hamilton County
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Part II. Recent Topical Updates on Sustainable Water Resource Management
Description: This session will provide recent findings and new insights on specific topics in water resource management, including the role of groundwater seepage as a source of Phosphorus inputs to lakes as drivers of HABS, the importance of improving soil health to increase infiltration, reduce stormwater runoff, and buffer both floods and droughts, and recent NYS changes to wetland regulations.
Presenter:
– Rebecca Schneider, Ph.D., Assoc. Prof. Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, Cornell University
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: G01 Biotechnology Building
All-hazards Preparedness and Response Education Program 101 – APREP for County Extension
Description: Introduction to the CCE state-wide All-Hazards Preparedness & Response Education Program (APREP) and its relationship the Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN), NY State Ag & Markets and YOUR county.
Presenter:
– Keith G. Tidball, PhD, CCE Assistant Director
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Session 10
Thursday, November 21
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Partnering with SeaGrant – MyCoast
Description: Come learn about SeaGrant’s web-portal and app that acts as a centralized resource for collecting and sharing locally sourced information about change to New York’s coasts and water bodies. Volunteers from across the state can upload photos and data through a suite of tools once they register. The data is publicly viewable and can be used by everyone for science, decision making, education, and storytelling. MyCoast automatically links the photo reports to environmental data from weather stations, tide gauges, river gauges, and lake levels to give the data context.
Presenter:
– Jessica Kuonen, Hudson Estuary Resilience Specialist, NY Sea Grant
Track: Natural Resources & Environment
Pesticide Safety Education Program
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Pesticides, IPM, and Risk & Update on Translating PSEP into Spanish
Subtitle: Pesticides, IPM, and Risk: Messaging Matters
Description: The goal of IPM is to effectively manage pests with the least risk. However, we all have a history of using messaging that is inconsistent with and often contradicts IPM itself, which can result in reduced pest control and increased risk for the people we serve. Everyone from Master Gardener volunteers to county Extension educators to statewide specialists can better help our clientele achieve IPM’s goals by recognizing and avoiding the messaging pitfalls this presentation will address.
Presenter:
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Subtitle: Update on Translating PSEP Materials and Applicator Certification Exams into Spanish
Description: We will discuss PSEP’s current and planned efforts to have outreach materials translated into Spanish. We will also discuss the progress regarding our work on a national level to determine whether and how states can translate applicator certification training manuals and exams, given that pesticide labels are primarily in English.
Presenters:
– Mike Helms, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Tracks: PSEP, Horticulture, Vegetables
NY Rice
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 525 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Can We Grow Rice in New York? Developing a new crop industry state-wide
Description: The NY Rice project is a research and extension experiment on rice farming that involves Cornell researchers, Cornell Cooperative Extension educators, and northeastern U.S. rice farmers. Our goal is to assess the feasibility of rice farming in New York as a potentially high market value grain. In phase one of the project, we are examining methods for growing rice in New York, the suitability of temperate rice varieties for farming in New York’s climate and growing period, and the market potential for locally grown rice. We are also evaluating the beneficial ecosystem services of flooded rice systems to serve as constructed wetlands in agricultural floodplain regions facing more frequent and intense flooding.
Presenters:
– Chuan Liao, Assistant Professor, Department of Global Development, Cornell University
– Susan McCouch, Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science Plant Breeding and Genetics Section and Professor, Computational Biology, Cornell University
– Jenny Kao-Kniffin, Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science Horticulture Section, Cornell University
– Matthew Reid, Assistant Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University
Track: NY Rice
Regional & Local Food Systems
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Branding & Marketing Campaigns for Buy Local Efforts & Agritourism
Description: Join us for a discussion led by Molly McManus, Agritourism & Marketing Coordinator with CCE Broome County, focused on branding and marketing campaigns across the state led by CCE associations or teams for buy local or agritourism efforts. We’ll hear what it took to set them up, their focus and components, and their impact. Then we’ll open it up for discussion on potential for more regional efforts or other synergies.
Presenters:
– Molly McManus, Agritourism & Marketing Coordinator, CCE Broome County
– Garet Livermore, Executive Director, CCE Herkimer
– Mary Godnick, Adirondack Harvest Program Leader, CCE Essex
– Melinda Meddaugh, Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader
Tracks: Agritourism, Regional & Local Food Systems
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Stories from the Field: How to Put Together an Effective Consumer Buy Local Event
Description: Buy local events such as “Meat the Farmer” have become more popular since the pandemic. But how do you get farmer buy-in and consumer attendance that create an impactful experience for both sides? Join this panel of CCE educators as they describe events they held in 2024, their outreach process and partners, lessons learned, and their plans for future events. Gather ideas for how to implement a successful program in 2025!
Presenters:
– Amy Barkely, Livestock Specialist, Southwest NY Dairy, Livestock & Field Crops Team
– Jacob Maslyn, Agricultural Economic Development Educator, CCE Ontario
– Uliana Ahashkova, Agricultural Economic Development Educator, CCE Ulster
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems, Agritourism
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Building Trusting Relationships with Farmer Communities: Best Practices in Working with Non-Traditional Audiences
Description: What do you need to engage with diverse farmer communities more effectively? Join this workshop for a panel discussion and working session with educators who work with non-traditional audiences within the food system. They will share their experiences working with farmer communities including farmers of color, Spanish-first farmers, the Plain communities, refugee farmers, veterans, and other groups. This workshop will focus on an open discussion of how we can all hold space for each other and build trust with the farmers we serve.
Presenters:
– Beth Irons, Oneida Public Market manager, CCE Oneida
– Lindsey Pashow, Agricultural Business & Marketing Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Mildred Alvarado, Equitable Farm Futures, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Violet Stone, Growing Together, Cornell Small Farms Program
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems; Small Farms
Session 8
Thursday, November 21
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Level Up with Qualtrics: How to Use all It’s Tools to Get the Information You Need
Description: More and more CCE educators are using Qualtrics to conduct farmer education evaluation, needs assessments, and gather information. But are you aware of all the different types of questions and how best to leverage effectively when using to get information from farmers? We’ll explore using example questions the multiple types of questions available within Qualtrics, including skip logic, display logic, form fields and more! Using adult learning concepts, we will think through how to structure questions and the survey experience for maximum farmer participation.
Presenters:
– Katelyn Walley, Farm Business Management & Livestock Specialist, Southwest NY Dairy, Livestock & Field Crops team
– Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, CCE Broome
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Crafting Compelling Narratives: Storytelling for Extension Agriculture Educators
Description: Join us for an immersive and hands-on workshop designed exclusively for Extension Agriculture Educators. This interactive session will focus on the art and science of storytelling, providing educators with the skills and confidence to create and share impactful success stories from their local programs. We will focus on writing and documenting in the CCE Program Development Reporting tool (PDR) and adjusting stories for use with different audiences. Through interactive activities and collaborative discussions, participants will explore the nuances of effective storytelling, resource sharing, audience analysis, and the curation of relevant materials.
Presenter:
– Celeste Carmichael, CCE Administration
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems
Small Farms
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Cornell Small Farms: Who We Are, What We Do, and How We Work Together
Description: Join the Cornell Small Farms Program team to learn about our projects, resources, online courses, and hear 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. There will be open discussion of what emerging issues small-scale farmers are facing to inform an upcoming Small Farms Summit, and participants will receive vouchers for a free online course in thanks for your collaboration.
Presenters:
– Cornell Small Farms Program Team (https://smallfarms.cornell.edu/about/#staff)
Track: Small Farms
Session 7
Wednesday, November 20
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Room: G10 Biotechnology Building
Building Trusting Relationships with Farmer Communities: Best Practices in Working with Non-Traditional Audiences
Description: What do you need to engage with diverse farmer communities more effectively? Join this workshop for a panel discussion and working session with educators who work with non-traditional audiences within the food system. They will share their experiences working with farmer communities including farmers of color, Spanish-first farmers, the Plain communities, refugee farmers, veterans, and other groups. This workshop will focus on an open discussion of how we can all hold space for each other and build trust with the farmers we serve.
Presenters:
– Beth Irons, Oneida Public Market manager, CCE Oneida
– Lindsey Pashow, Agricultural Business & Marketing Specialist, CCE Harvest NY
– Mildred Alvarado, Equitable Farm Futures, Cornell Small Farms Program
– Violet Stone, Growing Together, Cornell Small Farms Program
Track: Regional & Local Food Systems; Small Farms
Urban Agriculture
Session 1
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Lightning Round: CCE Urban Agriculture Project Updates
Description: A series of short presentations on current CCE urban agriculture initiatives. Topics include: exploring sustainable pest management needs and strategies for New York urban growers, Realizing the Promise of Urban Ag curriculum, previewing new digital risk tools for urban agriculture that are inclusive and accessible, and ag climate resiliency updates.
Presenters:
– Lori Koenick, Extension Support Specialist, CCE
– Yolanda Gonzalez, Urban Agriculture Specialist, CCE
– Dan Olmstead, IPM Digital Outreach and Development Coordinator, NYSIPM
– Savanna Shelnutt, Ag Climate Resiliency Specialist, CCE
Track: Urban Agriculture
Session 2
Tuesday, November 19
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
State-Wide Resources for Urban Agriculture
Description: As interest in urban agriculture continues to grow, state-level institutions are investing more resources to support urban agriculture. In this session, representatives from NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, NY Farm Viability Institute, SUNY Morrisville, New England Farmers of Color, and the USDA will provide an overview of exciting new programs, grants, and resources available for urban growers. Presenters will address questions like how to apply for specific grants, who to contact with questions, and how to overcome common regulatory hurdles.
Presenters:
– Moderator: Vicki Giarratano, Assistant Director of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development, CCE
– Kendall Hough, Program Manager, Food Systems and Resiliency, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
– Aileen Randolph, Program Director, Producer Grant Programs, New York Farm Viability Institute
– Elisa Livengood, Assistant Professor, SUNY Morrisville
– Mirem Villamil, New York City County Executive Director, USDA
Track: Urban Agriculture
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Panel Discussion: Addressing Barriers to Urban Agriculture
Description: Urban agriculture happens all across New York – urban agriculturalists are likely active in every town and village! Urban agriculture provides a huge variety of benefits, including ecosystem services and climate change mitigation, mental and physical health benefits, community and economic development, and food access. To maximize these benefits, it is important to understand and be able to respond to the barriers facing urban growers. These barriers include land access practices, soil contamination, local zoning, pests, climate impacts, and more. Join experts from across Cornell’s Extension team as we discuss these barriers and how to help urban growers overcome them in your part of New York State.
Participants can submit questions in advance using this link (please submit by November 14): https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5vtGmh2FqcxL8tE
Presenters:
– Moderator: Kyle Karnuta, Urban Agriculture Curriculum Development Specialist, CCE
– Mallory Hohl, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE
– Mike Kincaid, Director of Workforce Development, CCE Monroe County
– Yolanda Gonzalez, Urban Agriculture Specialist, CCE
– Hannah Shayler, Extension Associate, Cornell University
Track: Urban Agriculture
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Responding to Community Garden Needs
Description: Community gardens are an invaluable community resource. There are approximately 3,000 community gardens across New York State whose combined efforts contribute to the resiliency of our local food system and building healthy, sustainable communities. However, working with community gardens takes significant thoughtfulness, clear communication and humility. In this session we will discuss important considerations for interacting with community gardens, and improving community engagement, and to hear advice from the community garden specialists on how to develop meaningful partnerships with community gardens.
Presenters:
– Makela Elvy, Community Garden Leadership Specialist, CCE
– Mike Kincaid, Director of Workforce Development, CCE Monroe County
– Mallory Hohl, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE
– Kwesi Joseph, Urban Garden Specialist, CCE
Track: Urban Agriculture, Horticulture
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Building Community to Develop New Markets: The Case Study of Cut Flowers
Description: The Cut Flower PWT was formally accepted in February 2023. In the year and a half since then, we have started and supported initiatives – both programming and grants – and interacted with a large number of growers. In this session we will report out on what was done, with plenty of time for input and discussion.
Presenters:
Reporting on 2024 programming and discussion on what we learned
– Elizabeth Lamb, Senior Extension Associate, NYS Integrated Pest Management, CCE
– Jingjing Yin, Regional Commercial Horticulture Educator, Capital Area Agricultural and Horticultural Program (CAAHP)
– Makela Elvy, Community Garden Leadership Specialist, CCE
Reporting on 2024 grant projects and discussion on what we learned
– Steve Hadcock, Regional Market Development and New Farmers specialist, CAAHP
– Lindsey Pashow, Statewide agriculture business development and marketing specialist, Harvest NY
Track: Urban Agriculture
Session 6
Wednesday, November 20
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Room: 329 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Cut Flower PWT – where should we go from here
Description: Building on our success, we need to plan projects and programming for 2025. Suggestions have been made for a downstate conference, a series of You-Tube presentations, development of a beginning cut flowergrower resource and profiles of information relating to specific cut flower crops. Presenters will briefly introduce the topics, followed by discussion and input from all attendees.
Presenters:
– Elizabeth Lamb, Senior Extension Associate, NYS Integrated Pest Management, CCE – Resources for beginning growers
– Russ Welser, Senior Resource Educator, CCE Ontario County – Crop profiles
– Lindsey Pashow, Statewide agriculture business development and marketing specialist, Harvest NY – You Tube project
– TBD – 2025 Cut Flower Conference
Track: Urban Agriculture
Session 9
Adventures in Composting – Stories and Science from Across the State
Location: G10 Biotechnology Building
Description: Join Adam Michaelides, Compost Educator at CCE Tompkins, and Dr. Perl Egendorf, Assistant Professor at Pace University, to explore compost’s role in ecological gardening, climate resiliency, and building healthy soils through the perspectives of participatory research and extension/outreach programming. Participants will leave with an understanding of hands-on skills and tried and true strategies for compost learning and education, as well as how to successfully navigate available resources and common challenges. Learn what you can do to support composting in your community!
Presenters:
– Adam Michaelides, Compost Educator, CCE Tompkins
– Perl Egendorf, Assistant Professor, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Environmental Studies NYC, Pace University
Tracks: Horticulture, Urban Agriculture
Vegetables
Session 1
Tuesday, November 19
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Vegetable Research Updates
Description: Updates on recent research related to organic squash production, fungicide resistance, rhubarb, laser weeding, IPM, and cultural practices.
Presenters:
– Abby Seaman, Assoc. Director of Ag IPM, NYS IPM Program
– Steve Reiners, Professor, SIPS
– Chris Smart, Professor, SIPS – Rhubarb
– Christy Hoepting, Sr Ext. Associate, CVP – Alternaria fungicide resistance in broccoli
– Bryan Brown, Sr Ext. Associate, NYS IPM Program – Tradeoffs of IPM systems in organic squash production
– Lynn Sosnoskie, Asst. Prof, SIPS – Laser weeding trials
Track: Vegetables
Session 2
Tuesday, November 19
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Veg PWT Meeting
Description: The Veg PWT will hold a meeting.
Presenters:
– Elizabeth Buck, Fresh Market Vegetable Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension
– Margie Lund, Vegetable Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension
– Maryellen Sheehan, Agriculture and Horticulture Resource Educator, CCE Madison
Track: Vegetables
Session 3
Tuesday, November 19
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Strengthening Regional-County and Campus Connections
Description: This session is focused on laying the foundations for fruitful and mutually beneficial partnerships between faculty, county, and regional staff. We will network, discuss resource needs and opportunities, and interactively problem solve to address identified barriers.
Facilitator:
– Elizabeth Buck, Fresh Market Vegetable Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension
Track: Vegetables, Horticulture
Session 4
Wednesday, November 20
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Broadly Applicable Vegetable Research and Programming Updates
Description: Vegetable production updates and program delivery model case studies. Topics include variety trials in eggplants and tomatoes, mesotunnels in cabbage and melons, tomato breeding news, and late blight update, and beginning farmer training delivery methods.
Presenters:
– Zach Hansen, Adjunct Asst Prof, SIPS – Potato and tomato late blight strain testing updates
– Emma Nelson, grad student, C. Smart lab, SIPS – Standard and niche eggplant varieties
– Greg Vogel, Asst. Prof., SIPS – tomato variety trails and general tomato breeding updates
– Kaitlin Diggins, grad student, S. Pethybridge lab, SIPS – Mesotunnels in cabbage and muskmelon
– Rich Woodbridge, Extension Educator, CCE Niagara – Beginning Farmer Training Success Case Study
Track: Vegetables
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 225 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Rethinking How We House our Digital Resources (work session)
Description: In this session we will discuss upcoming plans for CCE regional team websites and housing digital resources with a focus on vegetable resources. We will have open discussions to determine how changes to the online system could best benefit vegetable staff and sharing our online resources with a broader audience as well as aim to create a committee that will continue this work as website changes continue to progress.
Presenter:
– Melissa Jo Hill, Writer and New Media Specialist, CCE Administration
Track: Vegetables
Session 5
Wednesday, November 20
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 423 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Pesticides, IPM, and Risk & Update on Translating PSEP into Spanish
Subtitle: Pesticides, IPM, and Risk: Messaging Matters
Description: The goal of IPM is to effectively manage pests with the least risk. However, we all have a history of using messaging that is inconsistent with and often contradicts IPM itself, which can result in reduced pest control and increased risk for the people we serve. Everyone from Master Gardener volunteers to county Extension educators to statewide specialists can better help our clientele achieve IPM’s goals by recognizing and avoiding the messaging pitfalls this presentation will address.
Presenter:
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Subtitle: Update on Translating PSEP Materials and Applicator Certification Exams into Spanish
Description: We will discuss PSEP’s current and planned efforts to have outreach materials translated into Spanish. We will also discuss the progress regarding our work on a national level to determine whether and how states can translate applicator certification training manuals and exams, given that pesticide labels are primarily in English.
Presenters:
– Mike Helms, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
– Dan Wixted, Cornell Pesticide Safety Education Program
Tracks: PSEP, Horticulture, Vegetables
Session 9
Thursday, November 21
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Room: 229 ILR Conference Center in King-Shaw Hall
Soil health and cover crops
Description: Maximizing Benefits with Cover Crops; New NE Cover Crop Decision Support Tools; New Soil Health Benchmarks for NY Soils and Cropping Systems
Presenters:
– Joseph Amsilia, Extension Associate, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
– Kristen Loria, Extension Support Specialist I, CALS – SIPS – Soil and Crop Sciences Section
Track: Field Crops, Vegetables, Horticulture
