News

NYS Meat Processing Expansion Grant

Wyatt Perkins — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:05:26 +0000

The Meat Processing Expansion Grant Round 2 program supports the expansion/retention of existing licensed meat processing facilities and the establishment of new licensed facilities in the state to increase opportunities within the state and to increase the market viability of NYS sourced meat. This program addresses the nationwide shortage of affordable meat available to consumers, schools and institutional facilities in the state. In addition to capital improvements at processing facilities, the MPEG Round 2 program also supports increased meat processing and market access through the development of the labor force and support of food safety upgrades at facilities. MPEG Round 2 funds extend this opportunity to 5-A licensed processors, 20C processors, and USDA processors

Application period opens: July 9, 2026
Application deadline: September 23, 5:00 pm Eastern

Maximum award is $250,000. Applicants may not request more than this amount per project.
Minimum award is $50,000. Applicants must request at least this amount per project.

Eligible Applicants;

For-profit businesses currently operating under USDA-Inspected, NYS 20C, or NYS 5A 20,000 Bird Small Enterprise Exemption licenses or who will secure such licensure during the grant period

Start-up enterprises applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial and land resources and technical knowledge at the time of application.

Nonprofit organizations that are currently generating revenue through the listed licensed meat processing-related activities

For more information

Click Here

NYS Dairy Modernization Grant Round 2

Wyatt Perkins — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 14:16:34 +0000

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Farm and Food Growth Fund are administrating the Dairy Modernization Grant program, which will provide grants for on-farm milk storage and transfer technologies and infrastructure which will improve dairy supply chain efficiency and avoid raw milk dumping related to emergency events. Funds provided by this grant to farms and agricultural marketing cooperatives are intended for the services and expenses to expand on-farm milk storage capacity, improve efficiencies, invest in milk transfer systems, cooling technologies, or other purposes deemed necessary to further opportunities for dairy farmers to transport or store their product

Application deadline is October 28, 2026. @5:00 pm

Maximum award is $250,000. Applicants may not request more than this per project
Minimum award is $50,000. Applicants must request at least this much per project.

Applicants eligible for these funds are existing dairy farmers (producers) and cooperatives that:

are headquartered or based in New York State
produce milk within New York State
are licensed dairy operations in compliance with all required state and/federal standards.
did not receive funding from the NYS Dairy Modernization Program Round

For more information: Click Here

Tags:

Dairy

Cornell Cooperative is looking for Board Members

Wyatt Perkins — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 18:42:25 +0000

Do you work with one of the many agricultural commodities produced in Cattaraugus County, like dairy, field crops, vegetables, berries, beef and others? Or are you interested in our regional food system, in building healthy resilient communities or equipping youth with hands-on skills and keeping 4-H a top priority for young people? Do you benefit from the Master Gardener's Program or Master Food Preserver program? Consider applying for an open seat on the Board of Directors of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cattaraugus County before September 25, 2026

The Board of Directors is the governing board of CCE Cattaraugus and works in partnership with county and state governments and Cornell University. The board of directors supports the Executive Director in developing CCE Cattaraugus strategy, helps to evaluate programs, and oversees funding for the organization’s operation and programming. Board membership is a three-year commitment with a potential for re-election for one additional term. Board volunteers must be residents of Cattaraugus County and at least 18 years of age. Board members are expected to prepare for and attend board meetings, as well as participate in working committees as needed. Elections for board members will take place at the annual meeting on October 21, 2026 at the Town of Ellicottville building, 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville NY 14731. Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal employment and program opportunities. Individuals who bring a diverse perspective and are supportive of diversity and equality are strongly encouraged to apply. If you are interested in more information or an application please contact our office at 716-699-2377x100 or ask to speak with our Nominating Committee Chairperson, before September 25, 2026.

Meetings are held monthly on the fourth Monday, in the evening. CCE serves all the citizens of Cattaraugus County in the areas of agriculture, agriculture education, youth and family development (including 4-H), sustainability of the environment (including Master Gardeners), nutrition and food safety, and healthy communities. There are 4 agriculture specialist teams for CCE Cattaraugus guiding access to education and research for our farms: SW Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Team, Cornell Vegetable Team, Lake Erie Regional Grapes Team and Harvest NY

Cornell Cooperative Extension Seeds of Wonder

Wyatt Perkins — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:52:57 +0000

Two New Youth Programs at Cornell Cooperative Extension

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cattaraugus County is happy to announce two new youth programs, Project S.O.W. (Seeds of Wonder) and Seed to Salad. These programs will help participants learn the skills needed to garden in a world where food supply and nutrition are not always guaranteed. Project S.O.W. is a curriculum for young people ages 13 to 19 and it will focus on food gardening with justice in mind. The program will center on personal growth, community connection, and equity. Youth will work together to investigate how to grow food, explore their relationship with the land and the food system, and practice leadership. They will discover the benefits of providing their families and communities with fresh and affordable food, and will gain firsthand experience in the self-determination, confidence, and connection that gardening brings.

Youth are becoming increasingly aware of food insecurity and Project S.O.W. will help them understand that we do not have to “do it all” to make a difference. When students hear about the good being done in our communities and feel they have a voice and a sense of belonging, then they can connect with this idea, and it will foster positive youth development.

The Seed to Salad program engages young people ages 3 to 12 in growing salad gardens of their own. The program emphasizes youth decision-making and uses a multidisciplinary approach involving nutrition, physical activity, art, planning, and problem solving. Participants will also use skills in math, science, and language arts, develop horticulture skills and learn how to make use of minimum garden space.

Because both programs focus on youth decision-making and have a high level of youth participation, students are more likely to stay interested and committed. Additionally, these programs can be offered either in school or during after school activities.

Cornell Cooperative Extension is offering both programs to Cattaraugus County school districts and area youth programs. If interested, please contact either: Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cattaraugus County at: (email) - cattaraugus [at] cornell.edu, (phone) - (716) 699-2377 OR contact Sheldon Kenyon (Food Systems Educator at CCE): smk348 [at] cornell.edu

Tags:

Community Supported Agriculture

Learn

New Generation Farm Tour

Wyatt Perkins — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:31:37 +0000

Come and enjoy a hands-on farm experience at New Generation Farmers Market. Looking for a fun, peaceful, experience for your group? We’re now booking private farm visits for groups of 20 people or less! For a flat fee of $300 per group, your guests can enjoy a guided experience at New Generation Farmers Market, including:

Meet and interact with our adorable Valais Blacknose sheep and our beautiful Percheron horses. Visit a cow and learn about farming, animals, crops, and what goes on behind the scenes.There's plenty of opportunities for memories and photos. Optional farm-themed crafts are available for an additional fee.

Perfect for:

Nursing homes & senior groups
Special needs facilities
Community organizations
School or youth groups
Families & friends
Small private groups

Located @ 9527 New Albion Road, Cattaraugus, NY 14719

For more information Visit:

New Generation Farmers Market

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Upcoming 2026 NYS Agritourism Conference

Devon Winters — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 14:20:49 +0000

On November 4th - November 5th, 2026, Cornell Cooperative Extension Agritourism Program Work Team presents the New York State Agritourism Conference. NYS farms, educators, public and tourism officials interested in starting of supporting agritourism across the state are invted to experience the opportunity to experience over 18 speakers, an evening networking event, and interactive agritourism experience sessions.

The evening networking event is designed to build partnerships and foster collaborations, attendees will have the chance to meet Taste of NY vendors that produce and sell products in New York. On the second day, you will have the opportunity to attend one of the two sessions; Agritourism Accessibility and Product Development.

The cost is $125, which includes lunch on day one, snacks during breaks, and lite refreshments at the evening networking sessions. Breakfast and dinner will be on your own. Registration ends October 30th, 2026!

Location:

Cornell AgriTech (Jordan Hall)

630 W North St.

Geneva, NY 14456

Any questions, please reach out to Lindsey Pashow at lep67 [at] cornell.edu or 518-569-3073. For more information visit,

Tags:

Agribusiness

Agriculture

Learn

Cattaraugus County 4-H Open Horse Show Series Fall Classic

Devon Winters — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 16:12:18 +0000

Saddle Up! The Cattaraugus County 4-H Horse Committee will be hosting the 2026 Bonanza and Fall Classic at the Cattaraugus County Fairgrounds in 2026.

Divisions include:

Gaming event Friday and Saturday Nights

English and Jumping divisions Saturday

Western, ranch, and small equine divisions Sunday

The shows will be held September 18th, 2026 - September 20th, 2026 between 7:00pm - 9:00pm.

*Friday - Start time is 7:00pm, Saturday & Sunday - Start times are 8:00am

For more information on this event, contact Eliza Schrantz at ers336 [at] cornell.edu or 716-699-2377, ext 112

Tags:
Horse

Interactive Dairy Learning Experience at the Cattaraugus County Fair

Dalton Fries — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:42:28 +0000

Fairgoers of all ages are invited to stop by the Cornell Cooperative Extension booth located in the Corporate Building for a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn about New York dairy cows and the important role dairy foods play in a healthy lifestyle.

Dairy in the Classroom Educator Carolyn Wellman will be on-site throughout the fair, providing educational activities for visitors to explore how milk travels from farm to table, testing your knowledge about dairy cows and farms in New York, and discovering the nutritional benefits of dairy products.

As New York remains one of the nation’s leading dairy-producing states, agricultural education plays a vital role in helping consumers understand where their food comes from and the importance of supporting local agriculture.

We look forward to seeing you at the fair - it’s sure to be an “udderly” good time!

Event Information:

What:

Dairy in the Classroom Educational Exhibit

Where:

Cattaraugus County Fair- Corporate Building

When:

Monday August 3^rd 9AM – 4PM

Tuesday August 4^th 9AM – 4PM

Wednesday August 5^th 9AM – 4PM

Admission:

Included with fair admission

About Dairy in the Classroom

Dairy in the Classroom is an interactive agricultural education program that helps students learn where their food comes from. Through hands-on activities, tastings, and demonstrations, students explore dairy nutrition, cow care, and the journey of milk from farm to table. Lessons can also introduce dairy genetics, agricultural careers, and food production, helping students build a stronger connection to agriculture and the dairy industry.

Game of Logging Level 3 Registration Open

Dalton Fries — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:03:35 +0000

CCE Cattaraugus and Wyoming Counties announce that registration is now open for Game of Logging - Level 3, scheduled for Friday, July 31st.

These hands-on courses are designed for individuals who want to improve their chainsaw safety skills and learn advanced tree-felling techniques in a safe and controlled environment.

The Game of Logging program is nationally recognized for emphasizing safety, personal protective equipment, proper chainsaw operation, and practical cutting techniques. Level 2 builds upon the fundamentals taught in Level 1 and introduces participants to more advanced felling methods, precision cutting, and strategies for handling challenging trees and situations.

Level 3 builds on the skills learned in Levels 1 and 2 by focusing on advanced problem-solving techniques, spring pole cutting, and safely managing complex felling situations with increased confidence and precision.

NOTE: Participants must have completed Level 1 and Level 2 to register for Level 3.

Participants will receive hands-on instruction from an experienced trainer and gain valuable skills that can help improve safety and efficiency when working with chainsaws. The course is ideal for landowners, outdoor enthusiasts, forestry workers, farmers, and anyone interested in safer chainsaw use.

Training Details:

Event: Game of Logging – Level 3

Date: Friday, July 31

Time: 8:00 am- 5:00 pm

Location: Boyce Hill State Forest

Cost: $170 - Check payable to CCE Cattaraugus

Registration

Advance registration is encouraged as class size is limited. Participants should bring appropriate outdoor clothing and any required safety equipment. You will receive additional information when registration and payment is completed.

Please send payments to CCE Cattaraugus, 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville, NY 14731

For more information or to register, please contact:

Kim Oudemool - Kkr35 [at] cornell.edu

or 716-699-2377 ext. 106

Spaces Still Available for Game of Logging Level 2; Registration Now Open for Level 3

CSMaxwell — Wed, 13 May 2026 17:28:05 +0000

CCE Cattaraugus is announcing that spaces are still available for the upcoming Bill Lindloff’s Pro Cuts - Game of Logging (GOL) – Level 2 training scheduled for Thursday, May 28th.

Additionally, CCE Cattaraugus and Wyoming Counties announce that registration is now open for Game of Logging - Level 3, scheduled for Friday, July 31st.

These hands-on courses are designed for individuals who want to improve their chainsaw safety skills and learn advanced tree-felling techniques in a safe and controlled environment.

The Game of Logging program is nationally recognized for emphasizing safety, personal protective equipment, proper chainsaw operation, and practical cutting techniques. Level 2 builds upon the fundamentals taught in Level 1 and introduces participants to more advanced felling methods, precision cutting, and strategies for handling challenging trees and situations.

Level 3 builds on the skills learned in Levels 1 and 2 by focusing on advanced problem-solving techniques, spring pole cutting, and safely managing complex felling situations with increased confidence and precision.

NOTE: Participants must have completed Level 1 to register for Level 2; and must complete Level 2 to register for Level 3.

Participants will receive hands-on instruction from an experienced trainer and gain valuable skills that can help improve safety and efficiency when working with chainsaws. The course is ideal for landowners, outdoor enthusiasts, forestry workers, farmers, and anyone interested in safer chainsaw use.

Training Details:

Event: Game of Logging – Level 2

Date: Thursday, May 28

Time: 8:00 am- 5:00 pm

Location: Pierce Whitney Forest

Cost: $170 - Check payable to CCE Cattaraugus

Registration: https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/Chainsaw3July31_2026-3_258 (QR CODE BELOW)

Advance registration is encouraged as class size is limited. Participants should bring appropriate outdoor clothing and any required safety equipment. You will receive additional information when registration and payment is completed.

Please send payments to CCE Cattaraugus, 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville, NY 14731

For more information or to register, please contact:

Kim Oudemool - Kkr35 [at] cornell.edu

or 716-699-2377 ext. 106