Ornamental Greenhouse Grower Education Day Tuesday, October 24, 2017 9:00 am - 1:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 9am: Welcome9:15am: Nematodes: Nice not Naughty (John Sanderson, Cornell University)Not all nematodes are plant pests. Some are good guys that attack and kill insect pests. Many growers have been using these nematodes against fungus gnats and thrips with good success. This talk will introduce you to insect-pathogenic nematodes, including when, where, and how they work, their compatibility with pesticides, and compatibility with other beneficial insects and mites. Practical advice on how to apply them, pitfalls to avoid, and associated costs will also be covered.9:45am: Greenhouse lighting: Costs and Benefits and is it time to upgrade to LEDs? (Neil Mattson, Cornell University)Neil will discuss the main reasons for greenhouse lighting: photoperiodic lighting of floriculture crops and photosynthetic lighting of flowers and vegetables. Based on recent research at Cornell on the electrical efficiency and performance of several LED fixtures for lighting leafy greens will be discussed, and example cost/benefit analysis of lighting will be presented.10:15am: Getting to the Root of the Problem (Brian Eshenaur, Cornell University)In this session we’ll look at important root and crown diseases on greenhouse plants including black root rot. We’ll discuss how root diseases can arrive in your greenhouse and then spread. An integrated approach of management will be presented, employing cultural techniques and fungicide drenches. 10:45am: Break11am: Nitrogen, Aphids and Wasps: How plant nutrition interacts with biocontrol (Betsy Lamb, Cornell University)Over fertilization wastes money and can affect insect populations, too. Does it affect how well biocontrol works? We will cover the results of a research project at Cornell that looked at the plant-aphid-beneficial wasp system as it is affected by plant nutrition.11:45am: Respirator Update (TBD)Some parts of the revised USDA worker protection rules and protocols went in to effect January 2, 2017. The presenter will cover the differences between the old and new regulations and how you can stay in compliance, including the new respirator and training requirements.12:15pm: Updates on latest developments in greenhouse structures TBD12:45pm: Evaluation & Go Home!DEC credits: CORE 0.50 1a 1.50 3a 1.5010 1.50 24 1.50Cost is $25/person and includes all handouts. $25 Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Exploring the Small Farm Dream: Is Farming Right for You? Tuesday, October 24, 2017 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 During this four part series participants will begin to think through small scale farming as a business (rather than a hobby), learn what it takes to start and manage a farm business and decide whether that is something they want to pursue. Through in-classroom education, peer support and self-study participants will finish the series being to answer whether farming is for them, and move onto working through a business plan. The cost to attend this workshop is $75/farm or family. This includes a workbook to walk through the four-part decision making phase, as well as dinner and refreshments provided at each meeting. Pre-registration is required. $75/farm (2 registrations included) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Vestal Farmers Market Wednesday, October 25, 2017 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Vestal Public Library (320 Vestal Pkwy E Vestal, NY 13850) Wednesdays, 9am-1pm in the parking lot of the Vestal Library you can find a farmers market that has been there more than 25 years! They have local farms with fruits, vegetables, baked goods, maple syrup and more!  ========================================= From Recipe to Market Wednesday, October 25, 2017 9:00 am - 4:30 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 On Wednesday October 25th, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County, in partnership with the Food Venture Center of NY and TasteNY, is offering a From Recipe to Market workshop from 9am-4:30pm. Is your recipe ready to go to market? If your goal is to launch a specialty food business, then this program is for you. This one-day seminar will provide future food entrepreneurs with a grounding in food business basics, and knowledge of the critical issues to consider before starting a food processing business. Participants will also hear about how they can utilize the Broome County Commercial Kitchen to get their products ready for wholesale production and into wholesale venues such as TasteNY, selling through local farmers’ markets and the Broome County Regional Farmers’ Market. $40 Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Take Your Recipe to the Next Level Wednesday, October 25, 2017 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 Let's Take Your Recipe to the Next Level9/27: Making Sauces & Business Plan 101In this session we will discuss how to make various tomato-based sauces using a pressure canner. Master Preserver Ann Supa will demonstrate how to safely create a product using food-safety and safe food handling protocols for a commercial scale. Agricultural Economic Development Specialist Laura Biasillo will discuss the various aspects of a business plan and how to create one for your food-based business. 10/11: Making Salsas (Fruit & Tomato) & Marketing 101In this session we will cover how to create two types of salsas (fruit and tomato-based) at a commercial scale focusing on the recipe analysis, food safety in production and safe food handling afterwards. While we are waiting for the recipes to cook Laura Biasillo will discuss how to identify your target customer, effective marketing and communication methods and labeling guidelines for your products.10/25: Making Condiments & Financing Your BusinessOur final session will cover how to make various condiments, including spice mixes, rubs, etc.. We will also feature a panel on how to obtain financing for your food business. Each session will be taught by Master Preserver Ann Supa and Agricultural Economic Development Specialist Laura Biasillo inside the Commercial Kitchen at the Broome County Regional Farmers Market. Dinner will be provided as well as recipes and other handouts. Participants will also bring home a sample of what they prepare at each session. Registration is $20/session; $35/2 sessions; and $55 for all three. One registration per person. Spots are limited so pre-registration is required. Varies Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= 4-H Club Officer Training Thursday, October 26, 2017 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 Whether you are a brand new club officer or interested in learning more about what officers do, you should consider attending this training. We will cover how to: Keep meetings interestingCreate an agendaCreating an annual plan Use committeePlan social timePlan activities and project workand MORE!We also will be handing out secretary notebooks and treasurer bank ledgers which must be submitted into the 4-H office at the end of the year.Click the link below to register, no later than October 23rd! Kelly Adams, kea32@cornell.edu, (607) 584-9969 ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, October 28, 2017 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Finch Hollow Fun for 3-5's Monday, October 30, 2017 9:30 am - 10:30 am Bats Learn about the only flying mammal and why they are important! $3 per person ========================================= Controlled Environment Agriculture Entrepreneur Conference Wednesday, November 1, 2017 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Have you been researching new ways to grow vegetables? Is your farm looking to diversify? Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) may be the answer----and this conference can help!CEA enables year-round production of fresh vegetables through greenhouse environmental control (heating, lighting) combined with hydroponic/soilless production systems. While CEA is an increasingly popular method of meeting consumer demand for locally grown food, many factors must be considered when developing a business plan and assessing its viability. This conference is intended to provide more detailed knowledge of CEA production systems, economics, marketing, and ways to access financing and state resources. It will also help guide new or transitioning operations through the process of developing a business plan for a CEA greenhouse vegetable business. The conference will be held November 1st and 2nd in Ithaca NY. The group size will be limited to 30 businesses (each may send 1 or 2 representatives), and attendees must apply to be accepted into the program. More information is available at: http://www.cornellcea.com/workshops/index.html Registration is free. Hotel/travel is paid for by attendees. Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Let's Write Your Business Plan Wednesday, November 1, 2017 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 During this four part series (skipping the week of Thanksgiving) hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County and led by Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, participants will work through the various sections of a business plan for their agricultural venture. This is applicable whether you are considering a food-based business, growing fruits or vegetables, raising livestock or starting an agri-tourism based operation. Using a set of templates created by the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture as well as the NYS Small Business Development Center, sample worksheets will lend a practical perspective and illustrate how real farm families set goals, research processing alternatives, determine potential markets, and evaluated financing options. Blank worksheets will help participants to develop a detailed, lender-ready business plan or map out strategies to take advantage of new opportunities.This series is set up so that farms can work on the worksheets between sessions and come back to discuss, get input from peers and professionals in the community and refine their plan. The final session will be dedicated to each participant presenting their business plan to their peers, as well as a panel of those representing finance, marketing, agricultural businesses and production.The cost to attend this workshop is $75/farm or family (this includes two registrations). This includes a workbook to walk through the five sections of a business plan, as well as dinner and other handouts provided at each meeting. Pre-registration is required. Preference will be given to NYS Veterans for spots in the series.  $75/farm (2 registrations included) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Senior Brown Bag Lunch Thursday, November 2, 2017 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 4-H Education Center at Finch Hollow (1394 Oakdale Rd Johnson City, NY 13790) Bobcats Learn about these animals who share their name with a hairstyle. $1 per person ========================================= Controlled Environment Agriculture Entrepreneur Conference Thursday, November 2, 2017 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Have you been researching new ways to grow vegetables? Is your farm looking to diversify? Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) may be the answer----and this conference can help!CEA enables year-round production of fresh vegetables through greenhouse environmental control (heating, lighting) combined with hydroponic/soilless production systems. While CEA is an increasingly popular method of meeting consumer demand for locally grown food, many factors must be considered when developing a business plan and assessing its viability. This conference is intended to provide more detailed knowledge of CEA production systems, economics, marketing, and ways to access financing and state resources. It will also help guide new or transitioning operations through the process of developing a business plan for a CEA greenhouse vegetable business. The conference will be held November 1st and 2nd in Ithaca NY. The group size will be limited to 30 businesses (each may send 1 or 2 representatives), and attendees must apply to be accepted into the program. More information is available at: http://www.cornellcea.com/workshops/index.html Registration is free. Hotel/travel is paid for by attendees. Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= 4-H Growing True Leaders Forum: "STEM"ming into Animal Science, Growing True Leaders Thursday, November 2, 2017 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County (840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905) 4-H volunteers and parents are invited to join us for this forum event developed in collaboration with Cooperative Extension Services 4-H staffs, 4-H National Headquarters, and National 4-H Council. This forum is an opportunity for 4-H volunteers from across the country to gain new ideas and learn together. True leaders are grown in 4-H. But as the saying goes, "it takes a village to raise a child," so we are inviting 4-H volunteers, parents, or anyone that is interested in learning how to strengthen the experiences we provide through 4-H. The event will be held at Cornell Cooperative Extension- Broome County with dinner provided or we will provide you the link and you can join us remotely. Not able to make the date? Don't worry! Be sure to register and we can make sure you receive the recorded version to review when it's more convenient for you. This session is titled "STEM"ming into Animal Science, Growing True Leaders Kelly Campbell, kmc86@cornell.edu, (607) 773-3300 ========================================= Pine Cone Garland Saturday, November 4, 2017 10:30 am - 11:30 am 4-H Education Center at Finch Hollow (1394 Oakdale Rd Johnson City, NY 13790) Come make a pine cone garland. Pine cones, beads and string will be supplied, you may bring along ribbon, tiny ornaments, or any other extras that you would like to tie your garland. This program is suitable for children ages 6 and up. $3 per person ========================================= Pine Cone Garland Saturday, November 4, 2017 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 4-H Education Center at Finch Hollow (1394 Oakdale Rd Johnson City, NY 13790) Come make a pine cone garland. Pine cones, beads and string will be supplied, you may bring along ribbon, tiny ornaments, or any other extras that you would like to tie your garland. This program is suitable for children ages 6 and up. $3 per person ========================================= Nut Bonanza & Fall Plant Sale Saturday, November 4, 2017 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Twisted Tree Farm (279 Washburn Rd Spencer, NY 14883) This family event is a celebration of the nut harvest, a chance to be a squirrel for a day! We'll be outdoors, roasting and cracking nuts all day, enjoying a bonfire, talking about trees, and tasting things like acorns, american persimmons, chestnuts, hickory nuts, butternuts, hazelnuts, and black walnuts.We'll have stations set up for you to experience everything from roasting chestnuts to pressing walnut oil. Kids are very welcome!Please note that parking is along the road. Suggested donation of $5-$20 or a local food to share ========================================= Let's Write Your Business Plan Wednesday, November 8, 2017 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 During this four part series (skipping the week of Thanksgiving) hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County and led by Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, participants will work through the various sections of a business plan for their agricultural venture. This is applicable whether you are considering a food-based business, growing fruits or vegetables, raising livestock or starting an agri-tourism based operation. Using a set of templates created by the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture as well as the NYS Small Business Development Center, sample worksheets will lend a practical perspective and illustrate how real farm families set goals, research processing alternatives, determine potential markets, and evaluated financing options. Blank worksheets will help participants to develop a detailed, lender-ready business plan or map out strategies to take advantage of new opportunities.This series is set up so that farms can work on the worksheets between sessions and come back to discuss, get input from peers and professionals in the community and refine their plan. The final session will be dedicated to each participant presenting their business plan to their peers, as well as a panel of those representing finance, marketing, agricultural businesses and production.The cost to attend this workshop is $75/farm or family (this includes two registrations). This includes a workbook to walk through the five sections of a business plan, as well as dinner and other handouts provided at each meeting. Pre-registration is required. Preference will be given to NYS Veterans for spots in the series.  $75/farm (2 registrations included) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= 4-H Awards Dinner Thursday, November 9, 2017 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County (840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905) All 4-H families from the 2016/2017 year are invited to celebrate the growth of our youth with dinner and an awards ceremony. Join us on November 9th from 6-9pm in the auditorium at CCE-BC. Dinner and dessert will be provided, but families are welcome to bring an appetizer to share. Registration is required to ensure there is plenty for everyone to eat. Click the link below to register no later than November 5th. Free Kelly Campbell, kmc86@cornell.edu, (607) 773-3300 ========================================= Let's Write Your Business Plan Wednesday, November 15, 2017 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 During this four part series (skipping the week of Thanksgiving) hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County and led by Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, participants will work through the various sections of a business plan for their agricultural venture. This is applicable whether you are considering a food-based business, growing fruits or vegetables, raising livestock or starting an agri-tourism based operation. Using a set of templates created by the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture as well as the NYS Small Business Development Center, sample worksheets will lend a practical perspective and illustrate how real farm families set goals, research processing alternatives, determine potential markets, and evaluated financing options. Blank worksheets will help participants to develop a detailed, lender-ready business plan or map out strategies to take advantage of new opportunities.This series is set up so that farms can work on the worksheets between sessions and come back to discuss, get input from peers and professionals in the community and refine their plan. The final session will be dedicated to each participant presenting their business plan to their peers, as well as a panel of those representing finance, marketing, agricultural businesses and production.The cost to attend this workshop is $75/farm or family (this includes two registrations). This includes a workbook to walk through the five sections of a business plan, as well as dinner and other handouts provided at each meeting. Pre-registration is required. Preference will be given to NYS Veterans for spots in the series.  $75/farm (2 registrations included) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Finch Hollow Fun for 3-5's Friday, November 17, 2017 9:30 am - 11:00 am 4-H Education Center at Finch Hollow (1394 Oakdale Rd Johnson City, NY 13790) Owls  Learn about these creatures that come out at night and see one up close! $3 per person ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, November 25, 2017 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Finch Hollow Fun for 3-5's Wednesday, November 29, 2017 10:00 am - 11:00 am 4-H Education Center at Finch Hollow (1394 Oakdale Rd Johnson City, NY 13790) Bears Learn about bears and what they do in winter! $3 per person ========================================= Let's Write Your Business Plan Wednesday, November 29, 2017 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 During this four part series (skipping the week of Thanksgiving) hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County and led by Laura Biasillo, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist, participants will work through the various sections of a business plan for their agricultural venture. This is applicable whether you are considering a food-based business, growing fruits or vegetables, raising livestock or starting an agri-tourism based operation. Using a set of templates created by the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture as well as the NYS Small Business Development Center, sample worksheets will lend a practical perspective and illustrate how real farm families set goals, research processing alternatives, determine potential markets, and evaluated financing options. Blank worksheets will help participants to develop a detailed, lender-ready business plan or map out strategies to take advantage of new opportunities.This series is set up so that farms can work on the worksheets between sessions and come back to discuss, get input from peers and professionals in the community and refine their plan. The final session will be dedicated to each participant presenting their business plan to their peers, as well as a panel of those representing finance, marketing, agricultural businesses and production.The cost to attend this workshop is $75/farm or family (this includes two registrations). This includes a workbook to walk through the five sections of a business plan, as well as dinner and other handouts provided at each meeting. Pre-registration is required. Preference will be given to NYS Veterans for spots in the series.  $75/farm (2 registrations included) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course + Optional Food Safety Plan Writing Workshop Monday, December 4, 2017 8:00 am - 5:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course + Optional Food Safety Plan Writing WorkshopFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety should attend this food safety training. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of:- Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be found on the farm- How to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks, and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm - Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one- Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet themIn addition, the PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in section 112.22(c) that requires 'At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.'What to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course (Tuesday December 4th):The trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules:Introduction to Produce SafetyWorker Health, Hygiene, and TrainingSoil AmendmentsWildlife, Domesticated Animals, and Land UseAgricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water)Postharvest Handling and SanitationHow to Develop a Farm Food Safety PlanIn addition to learning about produce safety best practices, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements are outlined within each module. There will be time for questions and discussion, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions.After attending the entire course, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. To receive an AFDO certificate, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course.Optional Workshop on Farm Food Safety Plan Writing (Tuesday, December 5th):Although this is not a requirement of FSMA, it is for those being asked by their buyers to have a food safety plan and undergo a 3rd-party audit. Participation in the day 2 session is limited to those who previously attended a 1 day FSMA or GAPs training.Day 1 will take place 8:30am-5pm. Day 2 8:30am-3pm. The cost per farm is $150, which includes two registrations. Your registration includes lunch, snacks, and coffee, as well as a packet of food safety reference materials and digital files of food safety resources.Pre-registration is required by December 1st. $150 (includes two registrations) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course + Optional Food Safety Plan Writing Workshop Tuesday, December 5, 2017 8:00 am - 3:00 pm 840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905 Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course + Optional Food Safety Plan Writing WorkshopFruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety should attend this food safety training. Individuals who participate in this course are expected to gain a basic understanding of:- Microorganisms relevant to produce safety and where they may be found on the farm- How to identify microbial risks, practices that reduce risks, and how to begin implementing produce safety practices on the farm - Parts of a farm food safety plan and how to begin writing one- Requirements in the FSMA Produce Safety Rule and how to meet themIn addition, the PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in section 112.22(c) that requires 'At least one supervisor or responsible party for your farm must have successfully completed food safety training at least equivalent to that received under standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.'What to Expect at the PSA Grower Training Course (Tuesday December 4th):The trainers will spend approximately seven hours of instruction time covering content contained in these seven modules:Introduction to Produce SafetyWorker Health, Hygiene, and TrainingSoil AmendmentsWildlife, Domesticated Animals, and Land UseAgricultural Water (Part I: Production Water; Part II: Postharvest Water)Postharvest Handling and SanitationHow to Develop a Farm Food Safety PlanIn addition to learning about produce safety best practices, key parts of the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirements are outlined within each module. There will be time for questions and discussion, so participants should come prepared to share their experiences and produce safety questions.After attending the entire course, participants will be eligible to receive a certificate from the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) that verifies they have completed the training course. To receive an AFDO certificate, a participant must be present for the entire training and submit the appropriate paperwork to their trainer at the end of the course.Optional Workshop on Farm Food Safety Plan Writing (Tuesday, December 5th):Although this is not a requirement of FSMA, it is for those being asked by their buyers to have a food safety plan and undergo a 3rd-party audit. Participation in the day 2 session is limited to those who previously attended a 1 day FSMA or GAPs training.Day 1 will take place 8:30am-5pm. Day 2 8:30am-3pm. The cost per farm is $150, which includes two registrations. Your registration includes lunch, snacks, and coffee, as well as a packet of food safety reference materials and digital files of food safety resources.Pre-registration is required by December 1st. $150 (includes two registrations) Laura Biasillo, lw257@cornell.edu, (607) 584-5007 ========================================= 4-H Growing True Leaders Forum: "Helping 4-H'ers Grow in Life and Work" Thursday, December 7, 2017 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County (840 Upper Front St Binghamton, NY 13905) 4-H volunteers and parents are invited to join us for this forum event developed in collaboration with Cooperative Extension Services 4-H staffs, 4-H National Headquarters, and National 4-H Council. This forum is an opportunity for 4-H volunteers from across the country to gain new ideas and learn together. True leaders are grown in 4-H. But as the saying goes, "it takes a village to raise a child," so we are inviting 4-H volunteers, parents, or anyone that is interested in learning how to strengthen the experiences we provide through 4-H. The event will be held at Cornell Cooperative Extension- Broome County with dinner provided or we will provide you the link and you can join us remotely. Not able to make the date? Don't worry! Be sure to register and we can make sure you receive the recorded version to review when it's more convenient for you. This session is titled "Helping 4-H'ers Grow in Life and Work" Kelly Campbell, kmc86@cornell.edu, (607) 773-3300 ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, December 30, 2017 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, January 27, 2018 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, February 24, 2018 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, March 31, 2018 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, April 28, 2018 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family ========================================= Stocker Cattle Initiative Short Course Saturday, May 26, 2018 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Stocker Cattle – an opportunity for the grazing entrepreneurCalves purchased/raised for grazing, then sold to a finisher. The term “stocker” was coined by producers referring to animals purchased in the spring to “stock” mountain pastures. The goal is to add weight economically using relatively inexpensive, excess pasture.How can you (seasoned, new-to-farming or thinking about becoming a farmer), get in on this phenomenal opportunity?The Stocker Short Course (SSC) to begin June 24th – Sign up NOW!The course will run on the last Saturday of every month from 10 am – 2 pm, June 2017 to May 2018. Most sessions will be held in the Hornell/Alfred region, other on-site locations to be determined by the topic.Topics of study will include land acquisition cattle procurement grazing management nutrition and health economics and marketingInternship participation available. Students completing the course will leave with a business plan, practical experience and knowledge to support their entry into the stocker business.Cost for the course is $200/person, $100/second person from same farm and/or family. Space is limited to 30 persons, so contact us very soon.Interested parties should contact Barb Jones, Cornell University Department of Animal Science, bjj6@cornell.edu, 607-255-7712. For additional information, contact Mike Baker, Cornell Beef Extension Specialist, mjb28@cornell.edu, 607-255-5923. The Stocker Short Course is funded by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets “Southern Tier Stocker Initiative”. $200, $100/second person from same farm and/or family =========================================