agriculture

From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:

March 6 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm - Winter Dairy Management - Dairy Modernization
Held at the Batavia Party House, Stafford, NY
Topics covered:
>Business Planning for a Successful Project
>Is your Farmstead Master Plan Still Workable?
>Renovating the Old Free-stall for Milking Cows, Heifers or Special Needs
>Replacement Parlor Options (including Robots & Manure handling)
>Evaluating environmental issues on your farm
For more information contact Cathy at 585-343-3040 x138.  Cost is $20 which includes lunch.

March 10 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm - NYS Dry Bean Meeting
Held at BW's Restaurant, Davis' Countryside Meadows Golf Course, 11070 Perry Rd., Pavilion
For more information contact Carol MacNeil at 585-394-3977 x406 or crm6@cornell.edu. For those enrolled in the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program cost is $20 pre-registration ($25 walk-in). For those NOT enrolled - $30 pre-registration ($35 walk-in). 2 DEC and CCA credits have been requested. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.

March 11 from 9am to 11am - Weed Management Workshop for Commercial Pea Growers.
Held at Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road in Batavia.
Dr. Robin Bellinder, Cornell will be the presenter. DEC/CCA credits available. Cost: $5.00 per person. To register or for more information, contact Julie Kikkert, 585-394-3977 ext. 404 or jrk2@cornell.edu.

March 16 to 20 - Ag Literacy Week.
Ag Literacy Week unites communities and schools. Volunteers bring New York agriculture into local schools by sharing a special story and leading educational activities. Volunteer in your community and get this year's book donated to your school or library. This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry and with the help from the NYS Apple Association and their generous donation will also mark the first year in which the book that is used will be written by New York Ag in the Classroom (NYAITC) staff. This book will be the first in a series that will highlight New York Agriculture and is titled: The Empire State Investigator: The Applesauce Bandit. For more information on volunteering or to sponsor a book for Ag Literacy Day, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at bbs28@cornell.edu or you can visit the Ag in the Classroom website at: www.nyaged.org/aitc.

March 20 - Registration deadline for Incubation and Embryology Project for the Classroom
Welcome to the Genesee County 4-H Incubation and Embryology Project. This interdisciplinary project is designed to provide youth with a “hands on” experience while classroom teachers have the opportunity to satisfy science, math and ELA core requirements.  If you have questions or are interested about the Incubation and Embryology project, please contact Barb Sturm at (585)343-3040 x122 or via email bbs28@cornell.edu.

March 21 - 7th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner
Held at the Alexander Fire Hall, Route 98 in Alexander, NY. Sponsors of the event include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Farm Bureau and Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District. This extremely popular community tradition has become firmly established as a festive, fun filled get-together, and an opportunity to come together and socialize before the beginning of another growing season. This event is sold out!

March 26 1pm to 4pm -Regional Berry Workshop - Pruning and its Impact on Pest Management
Livingston County CCE, Mt. Morris.
Agenda: Pruning Blueberries and Brambles
Pruning and Pests - A Closer Look
Sprayer Calibration's easier to do and more important than you think
NYS DEC pesticide applicator credits will be available for categories 1A, 10, and 22. Registration fee is $10. To register contact Jennifer at 585-658-3250. For more information call David Thorp, 585-658-3250 x109 or email dlt8@cornell.edu.

March 27 - Entries due locally to Barb Sturm for the "Be Aware of NY Agriculture" Contest
The Be Aware of New York Agriculture Contest is a great way to expose students (Pre-K - 6th grade) to agriculture and the food system, and to meet the New York State Learning Standards in your classroom. Students can learn more about where food comes from and why it is important that they understand agriculture in New York State, while creating art and writing projects.

The contest is divided by grade level categories and statewide winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Honorable Mentions) are selected for each grade level.
* 1st place individual for each grade level is awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.
* 1st place classroom and school receive agriculture-related books and /or videos.
* 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners receive T-shirts.

All awardees receive Certificates of Recognition. Winning entries will be exhibited at the Great New York State Fair. If you are interested in more information about this contest or need an entry from, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or check out the New York Ag in the Classroom website at : www.nyaged.org/aitc.

March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Dairy Bowl Contest will be held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua.  Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m., Contest will start at 10:00 a.m.  The primary objective of this event is to provide an educational experience for youth enrolled in a 4-H dairy project to demonstrate their knowledge of dairy related subject matter in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail.  County Entries are due March 6, 2009. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at:  bbs28@cornell.edu.

March 28 - Finger Lakes Region - 4-H Horse Extravaganza
The 2009 Finger Lakes Region 4-H Horse Extravaganza will take place at Canandaigua Middle School, Canandaigua, NY.  Local youth wil demonstrate their horse knowledge in Hippology and Horse Bowl Contests. The primary objective of this contest is to provide an opportunity for Region II youth to demonstrate the breadth of their equine knowledge in a competitive setting where attitudes of friendliness and fairness prevail. We hope that this contest will generate a rewarding experience for the 4-H members. If you are interested in more information about this contest, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at:  bbs28@cornell.edu.

April 9 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Organic Vegetable Gardening"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Organic Vegetable Gardening will be taught by Dale Jacobs, Master Gardener and owner of an organic fruit and vegetable business "Crooked Creek" Farms.  Vegetables should be part of everyone's diet. If you don't want to spend a little more for those organically grown and sold in the supermarket, perhaps you should consider planting your own garden.  It is very easy and even a project your children can join in on and have fun doing. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 16 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee and Dessert Series - "Annuals and Bedding Plants"
Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Christine Quataert, Master Gardener will be talking about annuals and bedding plants, with their seemingly infinite variety of flower colors and plant forms fit into almost any landscape situation  They provide the necessary touch of color to an often drab landscape.  These plants can be grown in containers to add a splash of color to a porch, deck or patio area.  They can also be enjoyed as fresh or dry cut flowers, as well as be a very rewarding hobby. If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 23 from 6 to 8 pm - Coffee & Dessert Series - "Spring Birds" (Back by popular demand) Held at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County.  Cost is $10.00 and includes presentation, handouts, and homemade desserts.  Pre-registration is required. Back by popular demand, Jan Beglinger, Master Gardener and member of the Buffalo Audubon Society, will be talking about Spring Birds.  Spring brings changes at the bird-feeder, but even more exciting birds that visit other parts of the backyard.  Spring often starts with the departure of old friends that have spent the winter with us.  Do you recognize the spring birds that show up at your feeder?  Are they different from the birds you see in the summer, fall and winter?  Our “birding” expert master gardener will help you identify different birds and show you how to attract them to your yard.If you are interested in the Coffee & Dessert Series brochure or need more information, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

April 25 - 4-H Cloverbud Round Up
If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via e-mail at ame29@cornell.edu.

May 1 - Deadline for 4-H Giant Pumpkin Contest
The contest is open to any 4-H'er/4-H Family in Genesee County.  If you want to have fun, learn about horticulture, and challenge yourself, join 4-H'ers who will grow a giant or tiny pumpkin in spring/summer (125 days to grow) in home gardens or in container gardens all over the county.  We will be using giant and small seeds. The Giant variety is "Dill's Atlantic Giant" or tiny pumpkin varieties includes "Baby Boo" or " Jack-Be-Little".  You can buy your own seeds or we can provide you with them. Educational materials will also be provided to each participant. Weigh-in will be in September (location to be determined).  Register by May 1st.  If you are interested in more information or to register, please contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106 or via  e-mail at: ame29@cornell.edu.

2009 Agriculture Enrollment - This service provides subscribers with up-to-date information on trends in the agricultural sector by utilizing research-based knowledge from Cornell University. Included in this service, at no charge, are direct mailings of "emergency information" for commodities of interest to you and voting privileges at the Extension Association's annual meeting to determine organization leadership. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040 ext. 126 or visit the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia for more information and enrollment packets.

4-H Participants - Please check the Extension website and refer to the monthly calendar for new and on-going events and deadlines. If you are interested in joining the 4-H program contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

4-H Local Government Intern Program - Designed for high school Juniors & Seniors. Orientation meeting 7 pm on February 2nd at the Old County Courthouse in Batavia. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130.

Coffee and Dessert Series - If you want to socialize and learn about gardening, why not consider participating in the Coffee and Dessert Programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. This is the fourth year of this popular program of classes presented by Community Educator Gail Culver and Genesee County Master Gardeners. During the program participants will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. For more information and to register call Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Eat SMART New York - This free, confidential program for food stamp participants and limited income individuals and families explores parenting strategies, healthy meal options, and ways to stretch food dollars. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call the nutrition and parenting education program at 343-3040, ext. 134 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Master Gardeners - Get answers on everything from landscaping to pest management. Free service. Call 343-3040, ext. 127, 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday or e-mail geneseemg@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Home Diagnostic Service - Genesee County Master Gardeners conduct on-site visits to diagnose plant and pest problems, test soil pH, advise homeowners on gardening practices and more. Cost is $25 for the first hour and $15 for each additional hour. Fee includes informational packets, soil testing and diagnostic results. To schedule an appointment, contact Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Speakers' Bureau - Providing talks on a variety of topics, such as wildlife, local bird life, organic gardening, landscaping and more. Programs can be tailored to meet audience needs. Fee is $50, or $25 for non-profits in Genesee and surrounding counties. For more information call Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

 Effective January 1, 2009, the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law states - "Farm machinery … designed to operate at 25 mph or less whether self-propelled or used in combination, shall each separately display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem." The law prior to 1/1/09 requires an SMV emblem on either the tractor or the vehicle being towed, but not both. The intent of the new law is to improve visibility of farm equipment operated on public highways. The towed vehicle can block the SMV emblem on back of the tractor.

Grants to Cost-Share Advertising & Promotion; Available First-Come, First-Serve Basis

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today announced the availability of funding for a pilot Pride of New York “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program.  Members of the Pride of New York Program can receive up to $5,000 on a first-come, first-serve basis to advertise and promote specialty crop food and agricultural products grown or processed in New York State.

“New Yorkers have some of the best products grown or processed right here in their backyard, yet unfortunately many don’t know where to find them,” the Commissioner said.  “I am pleased that the Department was able to secure federal funds for this important program that will help consumers identify local products and help the State’s specialty crop producers build awareness, preference and sales of New York products across the State.  I encourage all Pride of New York members to take advantage of this great opportunity.”

The Pride of New York’s “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Grant Program, a pilot project of the Department, provides up to $5,000 to create and develop promotional messages, purchase media time, print space or signage or pursue other promotional activities.  Members can choose from a wide range of advertising and marketing options that best fit their budget and target audience, in multiple media markets.  Cooperative advertising funds will be awarded on a first-come, first serve basis.  The program options include: 

·       Pre-Negotiated and/or Custom-Built Television Ads: Includes professional production of a 23-second TV commercial with a 7-second Pride of New York tag at the end. 

·       Pre-Negotiated and/or Custom-Built Radio Ads: Includes professional production of a 45-second radio spot that ends with a 15-second Pride of New York tag.

·       Print: Pride of New York will cost-share approved print advertisements and placement in a variety of consumer publications.

·       Point of Purchase and Promotional Items:  Pride of New York will cost share approved point of purchase and promotional item such as:  signs, bags, banners, product packaging, brochures, flags and rack cards.

Funding for the Pride of New York “Buy Local” Cooperative Advertising Program is provided through the 2006 and 2007 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.  The Department is utilizing 2008 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grants to cost-share third party Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) audits and to assist producers with developing farm food safety plans.

The Pride of New York program is the State’s marketing program for food and agricultural products grown or processed in New York State.  The program was created to help consumers identify fresh, high-quality New York State products where they shop.  The Pride of New York also assists farmers and food processors in branding their products by using the Pride of New York emblem, and encourages retailers and restaurants to highlight the New York State products they use and sell by displaying the emblem. To find out more about the Pride of New York Program, call 1-800-554-4501 or visit http://www.prideofny.com.

For more information on the Pride of New York Cooperative Advertising Program or other promotional opportunities, please contact the Pride of New York Program at 1-800-554-4501 or visit the Department’s website at http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us and click on “Funding Opportunities.”

From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:

The fourth annual New York State Agriculture Literacy Week (formerly Ag Literacy Day) has been scheduled for March 16-20, 2009, which will coincide with National Agriculture Week.
 
This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry. Volunteers from around the county, many of whom are closely tied to the agriculture industry, will visit elementary school classrooms to read The Empire State Investigator:The Applesauce Bandit. The books will then be donated to each school library courtesy of generous donations by Genesee County Farm Bureau, local agricultural businesses, and individual donors.
 
Barb Sturm, coordinator from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, said “Ag Literacy Day gives schools and industry volunteers a perfect opportunity to focus on agriculture awareness, especially in a region where agriculture provides a livelihood for so many people. We hope that by talking to students about how food gets from the farm to their plates, they’ll grow to appreciate all the people, processes and businesses contributing every single day to the industry that provides us with almost everything we eat, use and wear.”
 
New York Ag Literacy Week is a statewide educational effort organized by New York Agriculture in the Classroom (www.nyaged.org) with help from many agencies and organizations, including Cornell Cooperative Extension, New York Farm Bureau, and the NYS Apple Association.
 
For more information to become a volunteer reader or to sponsor the purchase of books, contact Barb Sturm by February 11, 2009, at Cornell Cooperative Extension at 420 East Main Street, Batavia, 343-3040, ext. 122, e-mail: bbs28@cornell.edu, or visit our website at: http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu.

From the Cornell Cooperative Extension:

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County will be offering a variety of upcoming events. More information can also be found on our website - http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu or by stopping by the Extension Center at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.

Tuesdays, January 6th through February 10th - Positive Parenting Series - 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia. Nutrition and Parenting Educator Mariellen Woodward-DeFelice will teach the following classes: Anger in the Family, Responsibility and Your Children, Disciplining Your Children, Setting Limits and Expectations, Winning Ways to Talk with Kids, and Family Enrichment. The series is offered at no cost to Genesee county residents and at a nominal fee for residents of surrounding counties. The next series will begin February 24th. For more information or to register contact Mariellen by phone at 343-3040, ext. 105, e-mail mew33@cornell.edu, or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.

January 28th from 8:30am to 3:30 pm - 2009 Corn Expo
Waterloo Holiday Inn, Waterloo, NY.
Guest Speaker - Dr. Danny Klinefelter Professor and Extension Economist, Texas A&M University specializes in agricultural finance and management development. He has worked with some of the best and brightest farm business men and women throughout the United States. His presentations are featured through Farm Futures' Seminar Series. You will not want to miss this very dynamic thought provoking speaker. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form.

January 28, 2009 - Ontario County Maple Beginners Workshop
For more information contact Russell Welser, Cornell Cooperative Extension Ontario County, 480 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424, Phone: 585.394.3977

January 29, 2009 - Farmland Protection and Purchase of Development Rights
7:00 to 9:00 pm Genesee County Building II, 3837 West Main Street Rd., Batavia
This workshop is designed for community leaders, farmers, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, appraisers and anyone with an interest in farmland protection in our region. The workshop provides a comprehensive review of the process for creating successful Purchase of Development Rights projects and programs in your communities including a review of grant applications and case scenarios. Please RSVP to Holly McAllister, Genesee County Planning Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5467 or hmcallister@co.genesee.ny.us.

February 2nd at 7 p.m. - 4-H Local Government Intern Program.
To be held at the Old County Courthouse, Batavia, NY. This orientation program is designed for For Juniors and Seniors in High School. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130. Click HERE for more information.

February 4 from Noon to 4:45 pm - Greenhouse Growers Seminar
Held at CCE-Monroe County, 249 Highland Avenue, Rochester.
Topics include: nutrient management and its role in growth regulation, pest and disease management, pest management, plant disease management and greenhouse sanitation. Registration begins at noon the day of the event. Program cost is $15. Contact Karen at 585.461.1000x225 or email ksk8@cornell.edu to register. Click HERE for more information.

February 4, 2009 - WNY Soybean/Small Grains Congress
Batavia Party House, Stafford. Click HERE for more info or contact Cathy Wallace at (585) 343-3040 x138.

February 10 - Becker Forum on Ag Labor
Holiday Inn Liverpool, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Proactive Approaches to Immigration and Workforce Issues. A variety of speakers will present at the Forum providing their unique perspectives on the changes occurring in agricultural labor, and will also provide practical and positive approaches for agricultural employers to apply with regards to public perception of the immigration issue and human resource management. Pre-registration required. For more information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/

February 11 and 12 - Empire State Fruit and Vegetable Expo
Oncenter Convention Center, Syracuse, NY. Contact NYSVGA@twcny.rr.com.
Two full days of tree fruit, vegetable and berry educational sessions including information on production, pest management, organic marketing, soil health and more! Pesticide Credits and CCA Credits will be available. The Expo trade show will feature the newest products, services and specialized equipment for the fruit and vegetable industries. Trade show sessions will be held in the exhibit hall both days. Contact the NYS Vegetable Growers Assoc. at 315-687-5734. For program information go to http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/hort/expo/.

Beginning on February 14th from 8 a.m. - Noon - NYS Tractor and Farm Machinery Safety Course.

To be held at various dealerships in Genesee County. Course instruction and intensive training in tractor and farm machinery safety, leading to certification is being planned for Saturday mornings at various dealerships in Genesee County. Classes include general tractor maintenance, safe farm equipment operation and safety issues in general. This training is offered only once a year and is for youth ages 14-16. For more information on this program contact Amy Berry at (585) 343-3040, ext. 106. Click HERE for more information.

February 16 - Small Fruit IPM Scout Training
10 am to 3 pm at CCE Wyoming County, 401 North Main St., Warsaw
This is the first of 4 sessions on small fruit production practices. Sessions 1 & 2 will be held as classroom sessions while sessions 3 & 4 will be held at Green Acre Farm in Rochester. Click here for the brochure. Contact Lutie Batt at 585-786-2251 for more information. Registration deadline is February 6. Cost is $75 for all 4 sessions.

February 18 - Online Courses for Beginning Farmers
The NY Beginning Farmer Project announces the next round of online courses designed to help plan new farm enterprises. Starting February 18, “Taking Stock: Evaluating Your Resources and Choosing an Enterprise†is 5 weeks long. The second course, “Marketing and Profits: Making Money Selling What You Grow†is 6 weeks long and begins March 18. Both courses are designed to stand alone, or build on each other by being taken back-to-back. They will be taught by educators from Cornell Cooperative Extension, and both courses will incorporate real-time interaction with webinars. Register soon as space is limited. Cost is $100 per course or $150 for both.
See http://beginningfarmers.cce.cornell.edu/index.php?page=onlinecourse for computer requirements and registration details.

February 20, 2009 from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Crop Insurance Meeting
Cornell Cooperative Extension - Niagara County, 4-H Training Center 4487 Lake Avenue (Rt. 78 just north of Lockport)

Agenda:
10:30 am Welcome/introductions: Paul Lehman, CCE, Extension Educator
10:40 Crop insurance policies with March 15th sales closing deadlines, such as corn (IIP, APH, CRC, GRP), soybeans, dry beans, grain sorghum, oats, processing snap beans and oats. Adjusted Gross revenue-Lite (AGR-L). Minimal treatment of specialty crops - Charles Koines, Consultant
11:25 Break
11:30 Comments from crop insurance representatives
11:40 SURE disaster program - Farm Bill provisions - Jim McNeil, Director, FSAUSDA,Niagara County; Jim Bittner, Singer Farms
12:30 pm Program ends - lunch
Lunch will be available for those who contact Karen (716-433-8839 x221, or kmk27@cornell.edu) by Feb. 19th.

February 21st from 9 am to NOON - 4-H Public Presentations.
To be held at Byron-Bergen Middle School. This event will help 4-Her's develop poise, self-confidence, organizational skills, ability to think ahead and become more comfortable speaking in front of others. Family and friends are welcome to attend this event. For more information on this program contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122.

February 23 - The First Annual Farmer-Chef Conference
This day long conference will offer Western New York's chefs and other food industry professionals the opportunity to network with local farmers and artisan food. Details are pending. For more information visit their website at http://www.fieldandforknetwork.com/ To receive up-to-date information about the Farmer-Chef Conference, please send your email address to FieldandFork@gmail.com

March 6 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm - Winter Dairy Management - Dairy Modernization
Held at the Batavia Party House, Stafford, NY
Topics covered:
>Business Planning for a Successful Project
>Is your Farmstead Master Plan Still Workable?
> Renovating the Old Free-stall for Milking Cows, Heifers or Special Needs
> Replacement Parlor Options (including Robots & Manure handling)
>Evaluating environmental issues on your farm
For more information contact Cathy at 585-343-3040 x138. Click HERE for the registration form. Cost is $20 which includes lunch.

March 10 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm - NYS Dry Bean Meeting
Held at BW's Restaurant, Davis' Countryside Meadows Golf Course, 11070 Perry Rd., Pavilion

For more information contact Carol MacNeil at 585-394-3977 x406 or crm6@cornell.edu. For those enrolled in the Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program cost is $20 pre-registration ($25 walk-in). For those NOT enrolled - $30 pre-registration ($35 walk-in). 2 DEC and CCA credits have been requested. Click HERE for the agenda and registration form. Listen to 1180 WHAM AM Radio in case of bad weather for cancellation notice.

March 11th from 9am to 11am - Weed Management Workshop for Commercial Pea Growers.Held at Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road in Batavia.
Dr. Robin Bellinder, Cornell will be the presenter. DEC/CCA credits available. Cost: $5.00 per person. To register or for more information, contact Julie Kikkert, 585-394-3977 ext. 404 or jrk2@cornell.edu.

March 16th to 20th - Ag Literacy Week.
Ag Literacy Week unites communities and schools. Volunteers bring New York agriculture into local schools by sharing a special story and leading educational activities. Volunteer in your community and get this year's book donated to your school or library.

This year the program will highlight the NYS Apple Industry and with the help from the NYS Apple Association and their generous donation will also mark the first year in which the book that is used will be written by New York Ag in the Classroom (NYAITC) staff. This book will be the first in a series that will highlight New York Agriculture and is titled: The Empire State Investigator: The Applesauce Bandit.

For more information on volunteering or to sponsor a book for Ag Literacy Day, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or via e-mail at bbs28@cornell.edu. Click HERE for more information.

March 21st - 7th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner
Held at the Alexander Fire Hall, Route 98 in Alexander, NY. Sponsors of the event include Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Farm Bureau and Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District. This extremely popular community tradition has become firmly established as a festive, fun filled get-together, and an opportunity to come together and socialize before the beginning of another growing season. Open to the general public. Tickets are $25 per person or $230 for a table of 10. Only 400 tickets will be sold and no tickets will be sold at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets call Michelle at 343-3040, ext. 107.

March 26 1pm to 4pm -Regional Berry Workshop - Pruning and its Impact on Pest Management
Livingston County CCE, Mt. Morris.
Agenda: Pruning Blueberries and Brambles
Pruning and Pests - A Closer Look
Sprayer Calibration's easier to do and more important than you think
NYS DEC pesticide applicator credits will be available for categories 1A, 10, and 22. Registration fee is $10. To register contact Jennifer at 585-658-3250. For more information call David Thorp, 585-658-3250 x109 or email dlt8@cornell.edu. Click HERE for the registration form.

Entries due locally to Barb Sturm March 27th - Be Aware of NY Agriculture Contest
The Be Aware of New York Agriculture Contest is a great way to expose students (Pre-K - 6th grade) to agriculture and the food system, and to meet the New York State Learning Standards in your classroom. Students can learn more about where food comes from and why it is important that they understand agriculture in New York State, while creating art and writing projects.

The contest is divided by grade level categories and statewide winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 2 Honorable Mentions) are selected for each grade level.

* 1st place individual for each grade level is awarded a $50 U.S. Savings Bond.
* 1st place classroom and school receive agriculture-related books and /or videos.
* 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners receive T-shirts.

All awardees receive Certificates of Recognition. Winning entries will be exhibited at the Great New York State Fair.

If you are interested in more information about this contest or need an entry from, please contact Barb Sturm at (585) 343-3040, ext. 122 or check out the New York Ag in the Classroom website at : www.nyaged.org/aitc.

2009 Agriculture Enrollment - This service provides subscribers with up-to-date information on trends in the agricultural sector by utilizing research-based knowledge from Cornell University. Included in this service, at no charge, are direct mailings of "emergency information" for commodities of interest to you and voting privileges at the Extension Association's annual meeting to determine organization leadership. The deadline for enrollment in the 2009 agriculture information service is February 1, 2009. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040 ext. 126 or visit the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia for more information and enrollment packets.

4-H Participants - Please check the Extension website and refer to the monthly calendar for new and on-going events and deadlines. If you are interested in joining the 4-H program contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

4-H Local Government Intern Program - Designed for high school Juniors & Seniors. Orientation meeting 7 pm on February 2nd at the Old County Courthouse in Batavia. For more information on this program contact Chip Malone at (585) 343-3040, ext. 130.

Coffee and Dessert Series - If you want to socialize and learn about gardening, why not consider participating in the Coffee and Dessert Programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. This is the fourth year of this popular program of classes presented by Community Educator Gail Culver and Genesee County Master Gardeners. During the program participants will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. For more information and to register call Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106 or stop by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Eat SMART New York - This free, confidential program for food stamp participants and limited income individuals and families explores parenting strategies, healthy meal options, and ways to stretch food dollars. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call the nutrition and parenting education program at 343-3040, ext. 134 or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

Master Gardeners - Get answers on everything from landscaping to pest management. Free service. Call 343-3040, ext. 127, 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday or e-mail geneseemg@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Home Diagnostic Service - Genesee County Master Gardeners conduct on-site visits to diagnose plant and pest problems, test soil pH, advise homeowners on gardening practices and more. Cost is $25 for the first hour and $15 for each additional hour. Fee includes informational packets, soil testing and diagnostic results. To schedule an appointment, contact Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu, or visit the Master Gardener Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, 420 East Main St., Batavia.

Master Gardener Speakers' Bureau - Providing talks on a variety of topics, such as wildlife, local bird life, organic gardening, landscaping and more. Programs can be tailored to meet audience needs. Fee is $50, or $25 for non-profits in Genesee and surrounding counties. For more information call Gail Culver, Consumer Horticulture Educator, at 343-3040, ext. 132, e-mail gac11@cornell.edu or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension, located at 420 East Main St. in Batavia.

New to Farming in New York?  Take the Beginning Farmer On-line Course.

From Genesee Community College:

Genesee Community College's growing Nursing Program may relocate to the first building in Batavia's new Med Tech Park, Vice President for Finance and Operations Kevin Hamilton reported to the Board of Trustees Monday evening. The Board met for its regular January meeting at the Batavia Campus.

The Med Tech Park is located on about 30 acres on the south side of Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive. Genesee's Board of Trustees, with the consent of the Genesee County Legislature, ceded the parcel to the Genesee County Economic Development Center for the creation of a new business park that can house medically-oriented firms in biotechnology, telemedicine, and other emerging health care technologies.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center is now planning the first building in the new park, Mr. Hamilton said. Preliminary plans call for the Nursing program to occupy the second floor of the new building. The second floor would consist of four classrooms, three nursing labs, a large group instruction room, and seminar space.

Genesee's Nursing program now admits students twice each year. The program has grown by about 70% in the past year in an attempt to help meet the growing demand for nurses in area hospitals and other health care facilities.

If negotiations progress well, the Nursing Program could occupy the new space in the 2009-2010 academic year, Mr. Hamilton said.

In other business Monday evening, the Board of Trustees:

• Approved four-year continuing appointments for 29 faculty and staff members. Receiving their first continuing appointments were: Michelle Abdella, Instructor, Math; Elise Banfield, Instructor, Psychology; Michele Bokman, Technical Assistant, Albion Campus Center; Cheryl Corke, Instructor, Accounting; Melissa Dussault, Technical Assistant, Lakeville Campus Center; Patricia Kendall-Cargill, Instructor, Nursing; Judith Littlejohn, Technical Assistant, Distance Learning; Nina Mortellaro, Technical Assistant, Human Communications and Behavior; Lisa Papke, Technical Specialist, Office of Financial Assistance; Carrie Sputore, Technical Specialist, Admissions; and Christopher Stercula, Instructor/Coordinator for Clinical Education, Respiratory Care.

Receiving renewals of continuing appointments were Katherine Brown, Technical Specialist, Office of Financial Assistance; James Bucki, Director, Academic Computer Technology; Robert Cooper, Assistant Professor, Photography; Michael Crittenden, Professor, Physics; Priscilla DiRisio, Technical Specialist/Transfer Coordinator; Mary Jo Dumuhosky, Technical Assistant/Academic Advisor; Donna Ehrhart, Professor, Business and Computer Information Systems; Julie Jackson-Coe, Assistant Professor, Reading; Kathleen Kimber, Associate Professor, Spanish; Nichola Lerczak, Assistant Professor/Instructional Services Librarian; Roger Majeski, Technical Assistant/Head Volleyball Coach; Frank Mayo, Professor, Speech and Theatre; Jennifer Mroz, Technical Assistant, Student Resource Center; Traci Phillips, Technical Specialist, The BEST Center; David Sink, Technical Assistant, Arcade Campus Center; Ronald Spiotta, Technical Assistant, Athletics; Pamela Swarts, Instr uctor, Digital Arts; and Jane Weston, Professor, Biology.

• Approved a three-year Comprehensive Technology Master Plan. The plan commits the College to maintaining leadership in instructional and administrative technology. Key components of the plan include additional technology for online instruction, greater use of "smart" technology in classrooms, emphasis on the purchase of environmentally-sound equipment, and three-year cycling of computers in all labs. The plan follows the vision of a "unified digital campus," providing easy access to instructional and administrative applications and strong technology-based communication tools, according to John Reina, Director of Computer Services.

• Heard Vice President for Student and Enrollment Services Virginia Taylor report that 564 individuals have applied for admission as full-time students for the Spring 2009 semester as of January 4, up 23% from the 459 individuals who had applied one year earlier. Also as of January 4, 473 individuals had applied for admission on a part-time basis, up 8.2% from the 437 individuals who had applied for admission a year earlier. President Stuart Steiner predicted that course registrations would be up approximately 5%.

• Heard President Stuart Steiner report that Eleanor Nixon will join the faculty as a temporary Instructor of Nursing for the Spring 2009 semester. Ms. Nixon comes to Genesee from Family Choice in Cheektowaga. She has experience at the Veterans Administration of Western New York, Hospice Buffalo, Lifespan Home Health and Hospice in Michigan, Battle Creek Health System in Michigan, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Ms. Dixon holds an A.A.S. degree from Goshen College (Indiana), and B.S. and M.S. degrees from D'Youville College. She is a resident of Buffalo. Dr. Steiner also reported that Margaret A. Sisson, who has been serving as Acting Director of Athletics since July 2007, has been permanently appointed to the position. Kathy Palumbo, who has been serving as Acting Director of the Nursing Program since August 2008, has been permanently appointed to the position.

• Heard Dr. Steiner report that Dr. Ruth E. Andes plans to retire at the close of the current academic year. Dr. Andes has been a member of the faculty for the past 38 years, serving as Professor of Sociology and more recently, as Assistant Dean of Assessment and Special Projects. Dr. Steiner noted that Dr. Andes has also served as chair or co-chair of each of the institutional self-studies required by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in preparation for reaccreditation.

• Heard Vice President for Finance and Operations Kevin Hamilton report that the architectural firm of Joy, McCoola and Zilch is preparing plans for the planned upgrade of the Batavia Campus athletic fields and that the College is nearing the conclusion of the planning process for a new campus center in northern Livingston County.