"New York's Great Appliance Swap Out" Program Plan Approved

Consumers to Receive Rebates for Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Appliances during President's Week, 2010
The U.S Department of Energy today announced it has approved New York's plan to provide consumers with rebates for purchasing certain energy-efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers and dishwashers through a program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). New York's Great Appliance Swap Out (NYApplianceSwapOut.com) will allow the State to issue more than 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million during President's Week in February, 2010.
Rebates for high-efficiency appliances will range from $50-$105 for a single unit and up to $555 for the purchase of a three-appliance package. In addition, the program, administered by the New York Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) encourages recycling by offering a larger rebate to consumers who recycle their discarded appliances.
"I'm pleased that the US Department of Energy is allowing New York to move forward with New York's Great Appliance Swap Out, a program that will help provide an important boost to the economy early next year while providing an incentive for New Yorkers to reduce their energy consumption. This program will offer more than 170,000 New Yorkers the chance to save hundreds of dollars a year by replacing their old appliances with new energy-efficient appliances and, by offering additional incentives for people to recycle, will help avoid placing additional burdens on our landfills. I'm grateful to President Obama and our entire Congressional Delegation for working to make this critical stimulus funding available. Without this federal funding, which will provide much-needed economic stimulus in New York, we would not have pursued this program."
NYSERDA President and CEO Francis J. Murray, Jr. said, "We are pleased to have final approval from the U.S. DOE allowing us to implement a program that will save consumers hundreds of dollars a year by replacing an old appliance with high-efficiency models. The program will not only help consumers save money and reduce the environmental impact of older appliances, but will help us meet the Governor's ambitious goals of improving our environment and decreasing our energy usage in the future."
Under the plan, consumers could receive rebates for purchasing eligible appliances individually or in a bundle. For an individual purchase, appliances will qualify only if they have earned the ENERGY STAR® label, meaning that they are up to 30 percent more efficient than standard models on the market. For a bundled purchase, consumers may receive a larger rebate by purchasing three eligible appliances that meet standards issued by the Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE) that are higher than ENERGY STAR standards. Appliances qualifying for a bundled rebate would be a CEE Tier dishwasher, clothes washer, and refrigerator together.
Customers purchasing appliances may receive the following individual rebates:
• Refrigerators: $75 ($105 with documented recycling)
• Clothes washers: $75 ($100 with documented recycling)
• Freezers: $50 ($75 with documented recycling)
• Dishwashers: Rebates are only available for dishwashers when they are purchased as part of a three-appliance package of CEE-rated appliances. These will qualify for a $500 rebate ($550 with documented recycling).
Many retailers are expected to offer free recycling to make it easier for the customer to receive the maximum rebate, and NYSERDA is coordinating efforts with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and New York City Department of Sanitation so consumers can also recycle their appliances at local landfills, waste stations and recycling centers.
Guidelines for the program:
• Consumers must be New York State residents to be eligible for the proposed rebate program.
• Appliances can be purchased at any retail location and must meet specified ENERGY STAR or CEE standards.
• The program is open only to individuals purchasing appliances for their own use.
• To qualify for the rebates, consumers must attest in writing that the purchased appliances are replacing existing appliances.
• Adequate documentation of recycling must be included to receive the maximum rebate amount and the rebate cannot be combined with other appliance rebate programs from utilities or municipalities. The rebate can, however, be combined with other manufacturer rebates or retail promotions.
Rebate forms and instructions will be available soon at www.NYApplianceSwapOut.com or through NYSERDA's hotline (1-877-NY-SMART). NYSERDA offers homeowners information on how to reduce their energy costs through its "Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®" program, which offers strategies for encouraging comprehensive home energy improvements for existing homes. This program has helped more than 27,000 New Yorkers significantly cut their energy usage.
Additional information, including information about ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances and other programs to help homeowners reduce energy costs, can be found on NYSERDA's web site at www.GetEnergySmart.org or from NYSERDA's consumer hotline at: 877-NY-SMART.

WaterSense

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2009



EPA Releases Final Specification for WaterSense New Homes

This will help homeowners increase water efficiency and save on their
utility bills

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its
final WaterSense single-family new homes specification today, creating
the first national, voluntary, water-efficiency specification for an
entire new home.

"Home builders can now partner with EPA and earn the WaterSense label
for their newly built homes, helping to create livable communities and
quality homes that are easy to maintain," said Peter S. Silva, assistant
administrator for EPA's Office of Water. "These homes will save
homeowners as much as $200 a year on utility bills compared to their
current homes."

EPA worked with hundreds of stakeholders over the past three years to
develop this specification, which was designed to complement existing
green building programs. WaterSense labeled new homes, which will be 20
percent more efficient than typical new homes, must be independently
inspected and certified by an EPA licensed certification provider to
meet the WaterSense criteria for water efficiency and performance.

The new homes will feature WaterSense labeled plumbing fixtures, Energy
Star qualified appliances (if installed), water-efficient landscaping,
and hot water delivery systems that deliver hot water faster, so
homeowners don't waste water-or energy-waiting at the tap.

By investing in WaterSense labeled homes, American home buyers can
reduce their water usage by more than 10,000 gallons per year-enough to
fill a backyard swimming pool-and save enough energy annually to power a
television for four years.

If the approximately 1.27 million new homes built in the United States
each year were WaterSense labeled, it would save more than 12 billion
gallons of water.

With this announcement, EPA is inviting home builders to join the
WaterSense program and commit to building water-efficient new homes.

WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by EPA, seeks to protect the
future of our nation's water supply by offering people simple ways to
use less water.

More information on WaterSense labeled new homes:
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/spaces/new_homes.html

To see a video message about the WaterSense new homes specification:
http://www.epa.gov/multimedia/playercontents/video/watersense/index.html

Rice is Nice

Rice Is Nice
Especially When Locally Grown
by Carrie Koplinka-Loehr

Rice paddies in Vermont? At 900 feet above sea level? More than 40 skeptics and believers from New England and New York flocked to Earthbridge Farm last July to see, touch, and learn about cold-tolerant varieties at the Sustainable Rice Production for the Northeast workshop.

Rice, a grass known botanically as Oryza sativa, is a tropical plant that has been adapted to temperate areas of the world, such as northern China, northern Italy, Poland, Russia, and Hokkaido, Japan. Until two years ago, paddy rice hadn’t been successfully grown in parts of New England where the last frost occurs in May and the first frost in mid-September. So why the interest now?

Rice production is alluring both to locavores and to growers seeking ways to get production from marginal lands. The paddies diversify the landscape, attracting amphibians, water birds, and beneficial insects, and they buffer nearby wetlands. Most of all, a one-acre paddy will typically yield 2–4 tons of rice, more than twice the average yield of nonirrigated wheat.

So what do you need to grow rice? Sunshine, a reliable source of water, and a soil that will hold it. Takeshi and Linda Akoagi had all three.

The Akaogis evaluated 31 rice varieties for lodging, sterility, shattering, and overall suitability. So far they have no pest problems, but they are careful. To prevent the spread of insects, they freeze the rice for three days before germinating it.

In 2006, with assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Akaogis constructed a small rice paddy at their diversified farm in Putney, Vermont. The first year the plants grew well but didn’t produce seed. In 2007 they added two paddies (increasing production to 1/10 of an acre) and received a grant from NE-SARE to determine if rice could be grown commercially. They identified 25 temperate varieties, many from Hokkaido, that produced seed. In 2008 they planted and studied three varieties, which yielded an average of 5,847 pounds of rice per acre.

Now the Akaogis are spreading the word. In the past two years they’ve hosted a series of workshops showcasing their rice paddies and their partners, such as rice breeders from Cornell, NRCS personnel, and Extension educators. Growers from surrounding states come to see the proof that rice can be grown productively in the Northeast and has the potential to become a commercial crop.

Some Energy tips for Halloween

"Trick for Heat"
Check your heating system's air filter every month, and change the filter every 3 months. Remove leaves, dirt, and other debris from around outdoor components, such as heat pumps, to improve air flow and efficiency. Have a qualified professional tune up your system with a pre-season maintenance checkup, and if it's time to replace your old system, look for models that have earned the ENERGY STAR.

Protect Yourself from Vampires
"Vampire power," or standby power, refers to the electric power consumed by electronics and appliances while they are switched off or in a standby mode. ENERGY STAR qualified electronics and appliances use a lot less energy in standby mode. EPA also recommends that you turn off electronics when they are not in use, such as computers and televisions. Plugging all your electronics into a power strip makes this easy—just flip the switch to power everything down at once!

What's Lurking in Your Attic?
Probably cold air. Seal air leaks around your home to keep the cold out and the warm air in. The biggest air leaks are usually in the attic or basement, but also around doors, windows, vents, pipes, and electrical outlets. Use caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping to seal the leaks. Add more insulation to prevent heat loss and make your home more comfortable this fall.

Don't Be Left in the Dark
Now that daylight savings is upon us, remember to swap out those old incandescent lights with new, energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) that use 75 percent less energy and last 10 times longer. Also, start preparing for the holiday season with ENERGY STAR qualified decorative light strings, utilizing LED technology for extra savings, long-life, and durability—plus they're just as pretty. You can even get orange ones for Halloween!

Don't Waste Your Heat on Ghosts
By properly using your programmable thermostat you can ensure that you're not unnecessarily heating the home when you're away or asleep. Programming a lower temperature for when you go to work or run errands throughout the week and/or when you go to sleep at night can save you up to $180 a year in energy costs. Check out EPA's new and fun Programmable Thermostat Tool to learn how easy it is to set for savings.

Reduce the Chill with a Ceiling Fan
By switching your ceiling fan to pull air upward versus push air downward, you'll actually be helping circulate the warm air down into living spaces. This will make better use of your heating and allow you to lower the thermostat to save energy while maintaining your comfort.

Don't Be Left Alone
Your pledge may help you save energy this Halloween, but what about your friends and family? Encourage them to take EPA’s ENERGY STAR Pledge before midnight on October 31st to avoid tricks, and get the treats of a better environment for everyone. Plus you'll all save money as it gets colder, too. And if you want to get involved, visit our In Your Community page and learn how you or your family can participate in fall activities that help prevent global warming—either through your local schools or with the Boys & Girls Club of America. Join the movement today and have a Happy Halloween!

New Open Burning Regulations Take Effect

Effective October 14, 2009 new open burning regulations now prohibit open burning across the State with only a few exceptions. Burning trash (even in a burn barrel) is now illegal in all areas of the State, including rural areas of Schuyler County. The State is also restricting the burning of leaves, instead encouraging composting. Farmers are no longer allowed to burn agricultural plastics, instead requiring landfill disposal (please note- Schuyler County is collaborating with surrounding counties to develop a recycling program, more information to come).
In an effort to dispel some of the common misconceptions surrounding this new regulation the following table is a partial listing of common activities Schuyler County residents may be concerned about. To view the entire regulation please visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/regs/4261.html.



The new regulations are important in improving our health and air quality as well as minimizing the risk of wildfires. Open burning of household trash releases toxic materials (arsenic, benzene, styrene, formaldehyde, lead, cyanide and others) into the air we breathe. These toxins can lead to immediate and long term health effects such as burning of the eyes and nose, coughing, nausea, headaches, dizziness, asthma attacks and can even increase the risk of cancer.
Please be respectful of your neighbors and stop burning-it the law.
If you would like more information on this article, contact information for local solid waste haulers, recycling or composting programs in your area please email Jenna Hicks at jlh254@cornell.edu or call the office at 535-7161.

Presentation on Schuyler County’s Agriculture Economic Strategy

SCHUYLER COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT and
CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION

Invite you to a presentation on
Schuyler County’s Agriculture Economic Strategy
Focused Development of Agriculture Assets

Schuyler County's agriculture economy has been developing steadily for more than 10 years. Expanded dairies, new farms, improved marketing, value-added enterprises, agritourism, and pastured livestock operations all demonstrate the ability of the agriculture community in Schuyler County to change with the times. In 2009, SCOPED and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County have sought an independently-derived strategy to identify the strongest assets and seize the right opportunities to stimulate enhanced economic growth in the agriculture sector. This presentation puts forth a deliberate and immediately functional prescription for agriculture development over the next 4 - 6 years. It contains some unexpected but important action steps to gain the greatest return on investments in the agriculture entities of Schuyler County. If you plan to be part of the local farm and business communities in the coming years, you are welcome to join in this informative presentation and discussion.
 by Jim Ochterski, Agriculture Economic Development Specialist
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 7:00pm
Schuyler County Human Services Complex,
Conference Room #120
RSVP by contacting Anne at SCOPED anne@scoped.biz or call 535-4341

Parking Census in the Village of Watkins Glen

A parking census is the first step in addressing parking concerns. Its primary purpose is to quantify current parking conditions in a specified study area and to objectively determine whether parking congestion or a “parking problem” exists. If parking congestion is found, the parking census will show where and to what extent in the study area it exists.
In this parking census it was concluded that there is enough parking in the study area. There may be “hot spots” in particular areas of the Village, but parking is available within only half-a-block from these hot spots. Parking in the study area is easy to access and easy to use. Parking is also within walking distance of Franklin Street, the Village’s main street.
In order to alleviate any current parking issues, there are a number of things that can be done. To begin with, signage indicating where additional parking is available may be beneficial. For instance, signage directing people to the county off street parking lot located at the waterfront, which typically has very low occupancy rates, could help to shift congestion from the main business district and at the same time, utilize well located parking. The signage should be similar in theme to the rest of the village. Also, employees could be asked to park further from where they work, allowing more space for patrons. Furthermore, painting parking lines, like the ones on 1st Street, could be helpful to guide people to parking as well as help direct people on how to park. Creating a more inviting space, away from the downtown, by introducing lighting and streetscaping could also be effective in directing people to park farther away, possibly lessening congestion. In addition to these improvements, the Village could improve existing parking by re/paving portions of the existing parking area, which would in turn provide more quality parking. Lastly, the Village, should maintain consistent enforcement of parking time limits, this could help to reduce parking congestion and as an added benefit, increase its revenues.

This study identified parking spaces, determined occupancy rates and concluded that a parking problem does not necessarily exist in the study area. Although there are some hot spots in the study area, there does not seem to be a lack of supply to meet the current conditions. It is also reasonable to assume that there will be enough supply to meet demand as the Village continues to grow. As new businesses come into the Village, the rest of the unused parking in the study area will begin to be utilized. This is especially likely if signage, painted parking lines, streetscaping and appropriate lighting is used along with improvements to existing parking areas and consistent enforcement efforts. The extent to which the Village can grow without needing extra parking facilities is beyond the scope of this study. Nonetheless, this study shows that there is a reasonable amount of parking to meet current demand and that the study area can accommodate future growth.
Parking Study Area

Cornell's Solar House

Cornell's Solar house will be on display at the NY State Fair through the end of September. For more information please visit the website

The Plastic Continent

STRATEGIC PLANNING SURVEY

As part of the year-long strategic planning effort that will chart the future of CCE in the challenging times ahead, a Strategic Planning Survey has been created. Schuyler County residents are encouraged to participate, but please only submit one survey per household, whether it be online or in paper form. (If you prefer to fill out a paper survey, please stop by our office.) The survey will be available until Friday, September 11, 2009.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

The Sun Come Up

Artile written by Brian Clark Howard in the Daily Green.
Sun Come Up, an Intimate Look at the World's First Climate Refugees
The Carteret Pacific islanders must abandon their homeland and peaceful, low-carbon way of life because of changes wrought by global warming.
The Sun Come Up

Watch the movie trailer:Sun Come Up (Trailer)

Visit the web site

New Report Released By Hobart and William Smith Colleges

It is estimates that 1.5 million people become ill each year in the US from infections caused by fecal contamination according to the latest report, titled “Wastewater Treatment: Where do Toilet & Sink Wastes Go?” released earlier this month by John Halfman, Researcher and Professor at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The report gives an overview of the two most widely accepted technologies used to treat wastewater; septic tank waste water treatment and municipal wastewater treatment; both have their advantages and disadvantages.

According to Halfman, the best treatment option will find ways to reduce the amount and variety of wastes generated at the source. He encourages homeowners to consider several common sense approaches to meet this goal. A few of these include using less-toxic or non-toxic alternative when possible; test your soil before applying fertilizers, and to properly dispose of chemicals instead of pouring them on the ground or down a stormdrain. To read the full report click the following link:
http://people.hws.edu/halfman/Data/PublicInterestArticles/Municipal%20Wastewater%20Treatment%20Facilities.pdf

Schuyler County Household Hazardous Waste, Electronics & Tire Collection Day

September 26th 2009 9:00am-12:00pm
@ Schuyler County Highway Department

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Registration Period August 17th to 28th, 2009

These lists are including but not limited to:

Household Hazardous Waste items accepted

*antifreeze *DDT *Drain Cleaners *Mothballs *Fluorescent light bulbs
*Household batteries *Oil Based Paint *Oven Cleaners *Pool Chemicals
*Pesticides, Herbicides, Fertilizers *Varnish *Wood Preservatives

Electronics- Fee's do apply.

*Computer components *Printers *TV's *Microwaves * Stereo and speakers
*Phones *Answering Machines

Used Tires- Limit of 50 tires per household (up to 16" in diameter)
NO RIMS
Fee is $1.50 per tire

please visit www.sc-landuse.org for more information

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer: Recommendations for Homeowner and Woodland Owner Action
Developed by: Peter Smallidge1, Holly Menninger1, Mark Whitmore1, and Charles O’Neill2. 1Cornell University Cooperative Extension, Department of Natural Resources, Ithaca, NY. 2NY Sea Grant, Cornell University, Rice Hall, Ithaca, NY.

http://nyis.info/insects/EmeraldAshBorer.aspx

Students work day and night to make 100 mpg car a reality

By Anne Ju
By summer's end, what looks like several pieces of a car on the floor of Upson Hall's GM Laboratory will become a full-size, fuel-efficient, plug-in hybrid vehicle......

To read the entire article click here.

How Planting Trees Can Cut Your Energy Bills 30%

Great article on where to plant trees to help your energy bill from The Daily Green!

http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/tree-planting-tips-47072203?src=nl&mag=tdg&list=dgr&kw=ist

Fun Vertical Garden Idea

This article was found on lifehacker.com....

Don't have enough space in your place to grow some herbs? Turn a shoe organizer into a vertical garden and as long as you have even a balcony railing with sun exposure, you'll have more than enough room.

Whether you're living in an apartment and dreaming of a garden's worth of fresh herbs for use in your kitchen, or you already have a garden and you want to put the bare side of your potting shed to work, this simple hack will turn your vertical space into an herb growing high rise.

The design is simple. Hang a canvas shoe organizer, fill with potting soil, and plant your favorite herbs in the pouches. With some strong sun and adequate water you'll have a thriving spread of herbs to flavor your favorite dishes. For more details on the design and implementation, check out the full tutorial at the link below.

Click the link below for more details and instructions on how to create this vertical garden.

http://lifehacker.com/5311492/turn-a-shoe-organizer-into-a-vertical-herb-garden

2009 New York State Conference

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Creation of Substandard Lots and the Use of Findings

The following link to a recent decision clearly illustrates a Zoning Board of Appeals powers to grant an area variance and create two substandard lots. Notice the weight the Court of Appeals gives to the clear evidence presented both in the request for the variance and the record provided by the ZBA on granting it.

http://lawoftheland.wordpress.com/2009/07/03/zoning-board-may-properly-grant-variance-on-second-request-where-circumstances-change/

Farm to Table

From Farm to Table encourages viewers to discover the bounty of New York's Capital Region, from the fields to the dinner table. A collaborative production of WMHT and Cornell Cooperative Extension, the series explores local farms and highlights New York state products.

Join nutrition educator Kim Sopczyk as she shows viewers how to make the most out of fresh local produce.

From Farm to Table airs on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. and repeats on Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. on WMHT.

From Farm to Table offers valuable cooking ideas and tips on how to stretch food dollars, while introducing viewers to local farmers and regional experts with valuable knowledge to share.

You can watch recent episodes of From Farm to Table on WMHT.org thanks to the support of our members and contributors.

More information click here


Watch the latest episode of Farm to Table-

http://www.wmht.org/index.php?s=3

An Update on Major Natural Resources Issues in Schuyler

Forest Pests
In April I discussed several serious pests that are moving towards our forests. I would like to dedicate more time to this topic now that the Emerald Ash Borer was confirmed within New York’s boundaries last week. The ash borer, Asian Longhorn Beetle, and Hemlock Woolly Adelgid are just three of a growing number of pests that threaten to eliminate entire species from our landscape and significantly alter our forest ecosystems. Despite these threats, insect and disease specialists are optimistic they will find effective biological controls to combat these pests.

As landowners, we can buy them valuable time to find these natural enemies by remaining vigilant for pest outbreaks on our properties. There are many pests affecting many trees in our landscape, so take time to become familiar with the tell-tale signs of serious pests. Most outbreaks have been found by attentive landowners – not the experts. At the same time, the experts have increasingly limited time to diagnose pest problems on a case-by-case situation, so the responsibility lies with landowners to do their homework and attempt an initial analysis. If in doubt, email some high-resolution digital pictures of the problem to Extension or the DEC, and if possible capture a specimen and place it in a heavy plastic bag or jar to freeze for later identification.


Energy
Like forest pests, natural gas development is no longer a question of “if” in Schuyler, but of how well we will be prepared when it happens. Gas exploration, wind farms, and bioenergy projects are both opportunities and challenges that are knocking on the door. A number of us were recently able to tour Fortuna Energy’s operations just south of the border in Bradford County, PA. Bradford is a Marcellus Shale “hot spot” of development due to its proximity to a major natural gas transmission line. There are many similarities between Bradford and Schuyler, including the presence of a major transmission line – the Empire Connector, which was built through western Schuyler last summer. These transmission pipelines are often the catalyst for intensive natural gas development in a new region.

The DEC’s temporary moratorium on some drilling practices pending the completion of the Generic Environmental Impact Statement has bought us time to study the impacts of natural gas development in similar areas, and learn from those experiences. While our local governments take steps to beneficially control the impacts of landscape-scale energy projects on our community, each of us as landowners must also take steps to become better prepared for these eventualities. Some examples of what we can do are:

• Determine your land ownership goals and evaluate how certain activities like gas drilling could compliment or conflict with those goals.
• Don’t sign a lease without understanding the terms of the lease, and without first seeking professional advice. For gas and wind rights leasing, landowners should contact a qualified consultant or attorney. Schuyler now has a landowner coalition that can provide expert advice on leasing issues. For timber harvesting, contact a forester.
• Educated yourself on these issues to better understand how they will affect both you and the community.
• Retain an expert to oversee your interests during the planning and execution phases of a significant activity on your property. Remember that your consultant can only enforce what was originally agreed upon, which is why they need to be included from the early planning stages. A relatively small investment in these professional services often pays big dividends in mitigating costly problems.

Upcoming events in Planning and Environmental in Schuyler

Upcoming events in Planning and Environmental topics in
Schuyler county and surrounding areas

Saturday, June 20, 2009 9 a.m. to 12 noon- REGIONAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE ON NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT- State University of New York at Morrisville Student Activities Building Theater. Elected and appointed Town and County officials who are currently experiencing natural gas development activities in their communities or are located in the Marcellus Shale reserve and expect such activity in the coming months and years are encouraged to attend. The public is also invited to attend. Admission is free. Sponsored by: Association of Towns of New York State, New York State Association of Counties and State University of New York at Morrisville Madison. County Pre-registration is not required but preferred by contacting Town of Lebanon Supervisor Jim Goldstein at Lebanon@citlink.net or (315) 837-4152

Sunday, June 21, 11:00am-12:00 Noon- Compost Tea & Crumpets
Several Master Composters from Tompkins County Cooperative Extension are offering compost classes through the Freeskool this summer. Compost tea is a nutrient-rich liquid, full of beneficial microorganisms that is quickly absorbed by plants. Join facilitators: Alan Bitar, Nicole Stumpf and Laura Woinoskius and learn how to brew your own; it's easy to do! Yes, there will really be crumpets! Optional: Bring your appetite and your Dad! Please RSVP to apb33@cornell.edu.

Thursday, June 25 10am-Noon- Energy Town meeting focusing on Green Jobs. The forum is free and will be available via poly-com at Tompkins County Cooperative Extension.
For more information contact:
Mark Pierce
Extension Associate
E-202 MVR Hall
Cornell University
607-255-0431
mrp6@cornell.edu

Thursday, June 25th- The Seneca Lake Area Partners in Five Counties (SLAP-5) invites you to attend a two-hour training that will help you fulfill New York State requirements for members of Planning Boards, Zoning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeals. This training will focus on improving and maintaining Seneca Lake water quality which is fundamental to the economy and the quality of life in our watershed communities. The session will provide information about the lake’s current water quality and how land use decision-making can support the protection of the watershed’s natural resources. This training is free for additional details please call the Yates County Soil & Water Conservation District at 315-536-5188 to register for the session you would like to attend or request additional information.



Compost with Confidence
Last Saturday of every month (June through October), 12:00 noon-1:00 pm
Compost Demonstration Site, Ithaca Community Gardens (near the Farmers’ Market)
Master Composter volunteers will provide information and give hands-on demonstrations to help you set up and manage a composting system in any setting. Each class will cover the basics of composting to teach you how to manage a successful system with minimal effort. Visit the workshop(s) of your choice to also learn about:
June 27 - Getting started
July 25 - Troubleshooting
August 29 - Is it done? & Compost Uses
September 26 - "Stealth" Composting (double-bin, indoor system)
October 31 - Winter Composting
Knowledgeable composting instructors will be happy to answer all of your questions and free informational fact sheets will be available. Registration not required - just show up! For more information, an updated event schedule or compost resources, visit our website, call the "Rotline" at (607) 272-2292 or email Adam Michaelides at acm1@cornell.edu.

June 30, 6:30 pm, Finger Lakes Institute Classroom
Lakefriendly Households: Is Your Home Healthy and Environmentally Friendly?
Part 1-Sarah Meyer, FLI Community Outreach Coordinator
Sponsored by the Ontario County Water Resource Council Special Projects Fund
There are multiple sources of pollution to the Finger Lakes environment, including households. Whether you live along a lakeshore, in view of a lake, or draw drinking water from Finger Lakes groundwater, all households can become more lake friendly. Every household in the Finger Lakes watersheds can improve water quality through simple and constructive efforts on their property. This program will identify the correlations between lakeshore and watershed development and water quality and household environmental risk. Participants in this 2-part series program will learn about household water quality, health, and environmental risks and discuss topics such as drinking water wells, water conservation, wastewater and solid waste management, stormwater runoff, fuel storage, and heating/cooling systems. This program is free and open to the public.

July 15th, 6-8 pm the Rural Stormwater Coalition will be holding a Rain Barrel and Rain Garden Informational Workshop at the Human Services Complex. Attendees will receive information on proper use and placement of a rain barrel as well as information on designing and developing rain gardens. All attendees will be entered to win a free rain barrel. Rain barrels will also be available for sale ($25) at the workshop. Pre-registation required by calling Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District at 535-9650. Workshop is free and open to the public.

Hi Folks,

Just a heads up to let you know that Green jobs is going to be the focus of our next Energy Town meeting event via the poly-com. In fact if NYSERDA agrees I will call it a Green Jobs Forum rather than a Green Jobs Energy Town meeting. It is scheduled for 10 am till noon on Thursday, June 25 and the following county associations have confirmed they will host the event:

CCE-Albany County
Chautauqua county
Clinton County (tentative)
Green county
Hamilton county
Herkimer County
Jefferson County
Lewis County
Monroe County
Niagara County (tentative)
Steuben County
Tompkins County
Westchester County
Warren County.



Cornell Cooperative Extension of the above counties is working with Cornell University and the Workforce Development Institute of New York to host this Green Jobs forum on Thursday, June 25, 10:00am to Noon. The forum will be broadcast to Cornell Cooperative Extension Associations located in 14 counties across New York State via Cornell's distance learning network. The forum is free and open to the public. Information on the following topics and issues will be addressed:

* what is meant by the term "green jobs"
* where and in what sectors of the economy do they exist
* information on available training programs
* what does the future look like for the "green jobs sector"

General information about the workforce development institute and
information about what services are available to the public will also be discussed.

The Green Jobs Forum will also provide information on starting a home performance business. New York State currently has training programs in place and some financial incentives available to entrepreneurs and home improvement contracting firms that want to expand into the home performance field.

We can add two more poly-com sites if any of you with the poly-com equipment are interested in hosting this forum at your county.

Also, if you want a press release/flyer to promote this event for an adjoining county where the event is being hosted let me know and I will send.



Mark Pierce
Extension Associate
E-202 MVR Hall
Cornell University
607-255-0431
mrp6@cornell.edu

May 15 Agriculture e-news

Upcoming events in the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Horticulture in the South Central New York Region

AGRICULTURE

The Buy Local Food Guide (Southern Tier and Finger Lakes) is still accepting listings. Deadline is NO later than the end of May. If you have already listed in the past would like to renew or would like to advertise please contact Matthew Neil Leroux mnl28@cornell.edu. View the guide http://ccetompkins.org/2008_local_foods_guide.pdf. A listing in the guide is FREE!!

Saturday, May 23rd- Sunset View Creamery- A Celebration of Agriculture and Small Business from 11a.m. to 4 p.m., where we will unveil our 5 yr. old Cheddar cheese, offer samplings of Cheese, wines and other products made in NY that we carry. There will be tours, hay rides, a scavenger hunt (for the children) and other events. Please call 594.2095 for details or email farmerswife@htva.net

August 19th-20th- Save the date-Creative Agriculture Approaches to Sustainability on the Farm at the Inn on the lake Canandaigua. Please visit www.fingerlakessustainablefarming.org for more details.

HORTICULTURE

Wednesday, May 20, 4-7 p.m. Irrigation Options- Cornell’s Freeville Farm 133 Fall Creek Rd. Learn from Steve McKay, Cornell Farm manager, what it takes to set up various types of irrigation systems. Solid set irrigation with electric and PTO-operated pumps, trickle irrigation, and small and medium irrigation reels will be demonstrated. A representative from Belle Terre Irrigation will be on hand to describe the types of parameters you need to know before getting an irrigation system designed. No fee, but please pre-register at 607-687-4020.
Thursday, June 18, 6:30-8:30 pm Integrated Pest Management for Healthier Plants
Donna Levy, Plant Health Care/ IPM Program Coordinator at Cornell Plantations, will explain what IPM is and how we can use it to keep our garden and landscape plants healthy while minimizing chemical use. Fee: $5. Limited to 20 participants; prepayment required. For more information, contact Pat Curran, Horticulture Program Manager, 607-272-2292 or email pc21@cornell.edu.

NATURAL RESOURCES

May 13 and June 10, 2009 (This is a two part seminar) TIES TO THE LAND: A Facilitated Workshop on Succession Planning- Keeping Family Forests and Farms in the Family7:00-9:00pmWorkshop location: United Church of Christ, 8758 Main Street, Honeoye, NY, 14471. Workshop Fee and Registration: $30 per person (or $30 per couple if attending as a couple or with another member of your family). The fee includes refreshments and one copy per family of the workbook: Ties to the Land: Your Family Forest Heritage ($45 value; additional copies will be available at the workshop or online at the web site). Participants must attend both of the sessions. To register call Diana Bryant, Cornell University Cooperative Extension, at 607-255-2115 or log onto www.human-dimensions.org and click on “workshops” tab. For more information, please contact Keith Maynard, New York Forest Owners Association, Western Finger Lakes Chapter, kmaynard@frontiernet.net or (585)229-4102.


May 2 or May 18 from 7:30 am - 4:30 pm at the Arnot Forest- Game of Logging- These are small-group (maximum 10) hands-on classes with a certified instructor that cover safe chainsaw use, chain and engine maintenance, and tree-felling (participants personally fell a tree under the instructor's guidance). Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Cost is $152 per day (there's a discount for NYFOA members) and spaces are filled first-come, first served. Full details, including participant feedback and on-line registration or mail-in registration forms, can be found at: http://www.dnr.cornell.edu/ext/forestconnect/GOL.html

Saturday, June 6th - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm- Silvipasture: Grazing Livestock in Your Forest - - Agroforestry Resource Center, 6055 Route 23, Acra, NY (Greene County) - The term silvipasture is currently being used to describe an interactive, complementary combination of high-value timber, high-quality forage, and highly efficient livestock enterprises. This workshop will be devoted to a cursory, but comprehensive study of these integrative systems, and of how the landowner can put them to use; considering their own specific sets of resource circumstances, and objectives for their land. Information on planning of the systems, all the way through "how to" implementation techniques and systems analysis will be offered. A field trip to a local "agrosilvipastoralist" operation is also tentatively planned for the day. Cost: $15/person, $25/family, includes lunch - registration deadline June 4th. Sponsored by Hudson Mohawk RC&D and CCE of Greene County. Directions available at www.agroforestrycenter.org - to register or for more info call 518-622-9820.

Thursday, June 11, 6:30-8:30 pm Invasive Insect Pests That Threaten New York's Forests. Our forests are threatened by invasive insects from abroad, particularly the Asian Longhorned Beetle, Emerald Ash Borer, and Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Early detection and rapid response are key to reducing damage and giving us the time to develop effective control techniques. This class by Mark Whitmore of Cornell’s Natural Resources Department will discuss basic biology, outline potential impacts, and help you look for these insects so we can find them before they become a problem. Fee: $5. Pre-registration preferred. For more information, contact Pat Curran, Horticulture Program Manager, 607-272-2292 or email pc21@cornell.edu.







Cornell Cooperative Extension in Schuyler County provides equal program and employment opportunities. Please contact us is you have any special needs.

Greening Your Lawn the "Green" Way

We have all been driving down the road and spotted up ahead a miraculous, green, thick gorgeous lawn that we admire and wish we had at home. There are simple, healthy (for you and your lawn) and environmentally friendly ways to obtain this same look in your own backyard with minimal effort.

Tip 1: Keep it high. The ideal height for turf grass is 2.5-3.5 inches depending on the species of grass. The longer blade of grass allows it to absorb more light and grow deeper, stronger roots as well as cool the ground, reducing evaporation. Longer blades of grass also reduce pest damage. This doesn’t mean don’t mow as often, it means mow often AND readjust the height of the blade on your mower.

Tip 2: Properly irrigate. Soaker hoses and trickle irrigation ensure water reaches the roots, encouraging deep roots and discouraging evaporation. Watering your plants early in the morning or in the evening will also reduce the amount of water lost to evaporation. Tip 3: Don’t rake up your grass clippings, leave them on the lawn for a great natural source of nitrogen, instead of buying synthetic fertilizers.

Tip 3: Maintain a health thatch layer. Thatch is the layer of dead plant material between grass blades and the soil. If the thatch layer is over one half inch it can prevent water and nutrients from reaching plant roots. In a healthy lawn worms and other microorganisms decompose the thatch layer. By aerating your lawn with a core aerator you can greatly improve the health of your lawn.

Tip 4: Use integrated pest management techniques (IPM). According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), IPM is the effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM carefully manages the biological, cultural and chemical control methods to get the best long term results.

No matter what your lawn care needs and goals are, visit Cornell’s IPM website for more information on “green” lawn care techniques.

What's new in Schuyler Horticulture?

Here are updates on our three gardens here in Schuyler:

The Hidden Valley 4-H Garden has been marked out and ok given from the parks dept. we plan on putting on compost and tilling in within the last week of April. Reuben is excited to add this garden to his educational plan this year along with the nutritional benefits for the campers.

The Head Start Garden at the Human Services Complex will be marked out within the last week of April. This will allow us to start the raised beds and get compost hauled in for those beds. All vegetables grown will go to the Head Start youth and their families with Cornell Cooperative Extension offering technical advice on growing and harvesting for the nutritional benefits of the youth.

The Watkins Glen Community Garden is well underway with a garden located behind the bus garage next to the tennis courts. This garden is tilled and will have work-bees on May 2, 9 and 16th from 10-2 each day. The grand opening of the garden will be Sat. May 23rd from 10-1 with Cornell Cooperative Extension offering help to those getting started. Call Schuyler Outreach to reserve your lot (10x15) $10.00 donation for your proprietary lot.

Cornell Cooperative Extension will be active in all gardens and will be helping teach class’s at all three gardens in the future so watch for more news.

Roger Ort
Horticulture Program Assistant
535-7161 for more info.

Earth Day Celebration

The Schuyler County Environmental Management Council (EMC) is working along side the Green Grand Prix to promote a day of fun and learning on Saturday, May 2nd noon - 3:00pm in Watkins Glen.  The focus of the educational piece is on renewable energy/energy conservation as well as stormwater management.  The event typically draws 400 plus people from a wide geographic range so this is a great opportunity to learn about renewable energy and energy conservation.  The Green Grand Prix gets national press and consist of a road rally for alternate fuels, diesel and efficient gas-powered vehicles.  There will be a speaker’s tent, several educational tents as well as food.

Free and open to the public!

All festivities will take place outside the Racing Museum on Decatur Street, Watkins Glen 
 
For more information on the Green Grand Prix please visit www.greengrandprix.com.
 
There will also be an electronics collection from noon– 3:00pm at the Watkins Glen School Bus Garage on Decatur Street. Large electronics will be $5; small electronics will be $1; cell phones FREE. All electronics will be recycled by REACT E-Recycling out of Horseheads.

If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact Jenna Hicks at jhh254@cornell.edu

The Northeastern Forest Products Expo

Northeastern Forest Products Expo-Watkins Glen International Speedway in Watkins Glen, NY will host the Forest Products Equipment Expo on Friday April 3 and Saturday April 4. Loggers, lumbermen, foresters and woodland owners from the region will meet manufacturers and dealers face-to-face and see machinery and other products first-hand. Sponsored by the Northeastern Loggers Association. 9:00am to 5:00pm on Friday and 9:00am-4:00pm on Saturday. Admission is $7 at the door.



Welcome to the Northeastern Forest Products Expo Educational Seminars at Watkins Glen International Sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension and The New York Forest Owner’s Association $10 Admission per half day session will go to the “Log a Load for Kids Program”. Started in South Carolina in 1988, "Log A Load for Kids" has grown to include 24 states. In 1997, Log A Load raised more than $2 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, making it CMN’s fastest growing national donor and the seventh largest contributor. 100% of the money raised remains with the local participating Children’s Miracle Network hospital, or the hospital of the donor’s choosing.

Friday afternoon events, April 3rd: 1:30-4:30pm

Invasive Species and Their Impact on Our Forests

■ Session 1: “Interfering Plants”
Dr. Peter Smallidge - NYS Extension Forester for Cornell Cooperative Extension.
Dr. Smallidge has conducted a variety of experiments dealing with the ecology and
control of different invasive plants at Cornell University’s Arnot Forest. Come
hear the latest on his findings.

■Session 2: “Major New Insect Threats”
Jason Denham – Entomologist - NYS DEC Division of Lands and Forests. A variety
of invasive insects threaten the future of our northeastern forests. Come and
hear the latest about Emerald Ash Borer, Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, the Asian Longhorned
Beetle, and others, including quarantine protocols.

■Session 3: “New Paradigms for Dealing with Invasives”
Dr. Ralph Nyland – Distinguished Service Professor in Silviculture, SUNY College of
Environmental Science and Forestry. Dr. Nyland will present his perspectives on
invasives and their impacts on the ecology, management, and integrity of
northeastern forests.

Which Varieties are Best for Your Garden???

Visit this citizen science program from the Department of Horticulture at Cornell. Vegetable Varieties for Gardeners is a site where other gardeners provide information on what varieties perform well or not so well. Also feel free to give your own input on some of your favorites!

Vegetable Varieties

Upcoming Events in Agriculture

Upcoming events in the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Horticulture
in the South Central New York Region

AGRICULTURE

Wednesday March 18th- 12:30 to 4:30pm- Farmer Distributor Networking Meeting at the Varna Community Center, Rt. 366, Ithaca. Learn from a panel of innovative distributors who are addressing the increasing demand for local products. Sponsored by South Central NY Agriculture Program. RSVP 607.272.2292 or email mnl28@cornell.edu.

Saturday March 21st 9am- noon- Apple Pruning Workshop- 678 County Route 64 Elmira NY. Rick Reisinger teaches how to prune an older apple orchard. Dress according to weather. Fee is $10 which includes light refreshments. Please register with Tioga CCE 607.687.4020.

Saturday, March 21- Pursuing Profit in Small Scale Production, held by Cornell Swine School for the Small Farm. 9am to 4pm at Morrison Hall, Cornell University and Cornell Swine Farm. Space is limited – first come, first served. $5.00 fee (checks made out to Cornell University) no later than March 13, 2009, to Cornell University, 128 Morrison Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853. At-door fee is $15.00.

Thursday, March 26, 2009 Practical Feed Crop Weed Control Workshop- The workshop will be held at the Lisle Fire Hall Rte 79 west of Lisle. Meeting registration will begin at 10:30 p.m. The meeting will begin at 11:00 and conclude at 3 p.m. Please call Sharon at 607-753-5078 to pre-register for this workshop. The cost is $15-20, sliding scale. For More Information Contact Janice Degni, Area Field Crops Specialist – 607-753-5077.

March 28, 2009 from 9:30am to 1:00pm at the Civil Defense Center in Bath, NY. Spring Equine Seminar. There is no cost to attend. Lunch will be provided by Blue Seal Feeds. Registration is requested by March 26th. To register or for more information contact CCE at 607-664-2300.

Monday, March 30th from 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty Spring Workshop at Jordan Hall in the NYS Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, NY. Finger Lakes farm and food producers are invited to learn how to develop product, get it to market and effectively tell their story to gain the greatest access to growing markets interested in local foods. Program cost (including workshops, handouts and lunch) for advanced registration is $25 for FLCB current members and $45 non-members. To register in advance, or for more info, call Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County at (607) 272-2292 or email Liz Karabinakis at mailto:evk4@cornell.edu

Tuesday, April 7th – Agritourism Conference- Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel- Noted agritiouirism marketing expert Jane Eckert will be the moderator for the Conference and Workshop. The workshop will run from 8:30am to 4:00pm. The workshop is free, lunch will be available for $15. Please make a reservation with the Chamber of Commerce- 607-535-4300.

Wednesday April 08- Introduction to Vineyard and Winery Establishment- 8:30am- 4:30pm. This one-day workshop will provide a basic overview of what it takes to establish a commercial vineyard and/or winery. Registration: Registration fee is $100, and includes lunch and a CD-ROM with workshop materials and references. Register online at: http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/events/product.php?productid=16154&cat=249 Members of the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program will receive a discounted registration fee, and should register directly by check with Linda Aures lfa2@cornell.edu telephone 716-672-5296. Contact: Linda Aures: lfa2@cornell.edu

Saturday May 2nd- Horse Feathers 4-H Friends Flock Together. The up-coming program will incorporate both horse and poultry topics for youth ages 9-12 or those with beginners/intermediate knowledge of the species. All youth, 4-H and non-4-H, are invited to participate. Please register with Cate Sirek 607.535.7161 or email ces38@cornell.edu by April 15th.

HORTICULTURE

Tuesdays, March 31 through June 9- Master Gardener Training is coming...
The Steuben County Cooperative Extension Horticulture program is hosting a Master Gardener training series. To register, contact Stephanie at 607-664-2300 or sms64@cornell.edu.

Friday April 3rd- High Tunnels For Season Extension- 9:00am-3:00pm. Cornell Cooperative Extension Tioga 56 Main St. Owego. This workshop is free to farmer participants and includes a light lunch thanks to funds from NY Farm Viability Institute. Please pre-register 607.687.4020.

Wednesday April 22nd Deer Fencing- Plenty of Posies 395 Shaffer Rd, Newfield. See three different styles of deer fence. No fee, but please pre-register at 607-687-4020.

Date: May 13 and June 10, 2009 (This is a two part seminar) TIES TO THE LAND: A Facilitated Workshop on Succession Planning- Keeping Family Forests and Farms in the Family7:00-9:00pmWorkshop location: United Church of Christ, 8758 Main Street, Honeoye, NY, 14471. Workshop Fee and Registration: $30 per person (or $30 per couple if attending as a couple or with another member of your family). The fee includes refreshments and one copy per family of the workbook: Ties to the Land: Your Family Forest Heritage ($45 value; additional copies will be available at the workshop or online at the web site). Participants must attend both of the sessions. To register call Diana Bryant, Cornell University Cooperative Extension, at 607-255-2115 or log onto www.human-dimensions.org and click on “workshops” tab. For more information, please contact Keith Maynard, New York Forest Owners Association, Western Finger Lakes Chapter, kmaynard@frontiernet.net or (585)229-4102.

Wednesday May 20th, 4pm-7pm- Irrigation Options- Cornell’s Freeville Farm 133 Fall Creek Road. No fee, but please pre-register at 607.687.4020.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Thursday March 19th 2009- New York Renewable Fuels Workshops 2009-10 am - 1 pm Civil Defense Center, Route 54, Bath, NY, Contact: Carl Albers, Cornell Cooperative Extension Steuben County, cwa1@cornell.edu or Brett Chedzoy, Cornell Cooperative Extension Schuyler County, bjc226@cornell.edu To register call CCE-Steuben County at 607-664-2300. The New York Renewable Fuels Roadmap project (funded by NYSERDA, NY Ag & Markets and NYS DEC) seeks to address these and other questions for New Yorkers:

1) How much biomass (wood, grasses, and energy crops) do we have?

2) What factors are important in producing sustainable biomass?

3) What new business opportunities do you see in biomass?

Saturday and Sunday, March 21 & 22 Maple Weekend at Arnot Forest-Come to the Arnot Forest and help us celebrate sap season and transition to spring! Walk in the woods or visit the sugar house, where sap becomes syrup. Take time for a self-guided tour of the adjacent sugar bush to see how trees are tapped, sap is collected, and the forest is managed to promote healthy sugar maple trees. Enjoy fun activities for the whole family, and taste our syrup first-hand at Saturday and Sunday’s pancake breakfast! And…see live amphibians, reptiles and birds of prey from 9-11 am both days. Pre-registration is not available for this event. Time: 10 am- 4pm Cost: Admission is free- Pancake breakfast and Lunch are available for a fee. No registration required. Please call Phone 607-589-6076 for details.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009 Christmas Tree- Growers Steuben Area Annual Meeting Bath Country Club 330 May Street, Bath, New York-607-776-3390- 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 6:30pm Buffet-style meal - $20 per person 7:00pm- Site Assessment for Christmas Trees – Ideas to Enhance Tree- Health and to Hinder Weeds and Other Pests. For reservations please call us or return this form with your check to: CCE – Steuben County, 3 East Pulteney Square, Bath, NY 14810. 607-664-2300.

Saturday, March 28th- Weeds and other Aquatic Plants- The Good the Bad and the Ugly. Red Jacket Dr. House 2528 Lower Lake Road Seneca Falls, NY. Contact jlpipher@pas.rochester.edu or 315-568-9597 for further information.

Tuesday, April 7 from 3:00-4:30- Marcellus Shale Gas Leasing Landowner Coalitions: Structures, Goals, Issues – Webinar Adobe Connect Webinar,. Please go to the NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT RESOURCE CENTER website to register, http://gasleasing.cce.cornell.edu/. The webinar will include general updates, overview of landowner coalitions and related issues such as compulsory integration. This is part of the Marcellus Shale training series; there will be another webinar on May 4 at 3:00 (topic for that is under consideration). Contact person: Rod Howe, rlh13@cornell.edu.

May 2 or May 18 from 7:30 am - 4:30 pm at the Arnot Forest- Game of Logging- These are small-group (maximum 10) hands-on classes with a certified instructor that cover safe chainsaw use, chain and engine maintenance, and tree-felling (participants personally fell a tree under the instructor's guidance). Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Cost is $152 per day (there's a discount for NYFOA members) and spaces are filled first-come, first served. Full details, including participant feedback and on-line registration or mail-in registration forms, can be found at: http://www.dnr.cornell.edu/ext/forestconnect/GOL.html

Sunday, May 10 Mother’s Day Wildflower Breakfast- Bring Mom to the Arnot Forest for a peaceful and relaxing breakfast at the lodge. Afterward, take a guided or self-guided wildflower walk. Learn to identify the beautiful wildflowers that carpet the forest floor in the springtime. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Check website for last-minute updates. Time: Breakfast and self-guided walk 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Guided walk 11:00 am. Pre-registration Cost: $8/person, $2/person kids under 12.Day of event cost: $10/person, $2/person kid under12. Please pre-register with Cathy at CCE Schuyler 607.535.7161 or email cab377@cornell.edu

Natural Gas Development Resource Center
Responding to the need for ongoing training, information sharing and public discourse. http://gasleasing.cce.cornell.edu/

Got Gas? Schuyler (and most surrounding counties) now has Landowner Gas Leasing Coalitions. There is typically no fee and no commitment to join. To learn more about your local coalition and meeting dates, visit: http://schuylerloc.org (Schuyler County) or http://www.southerntierlandownerscoalition.org/ for all other counties.


RENEWABLE ENERGY

Green Building Seminar Series

Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm

First Unitarian Church of Ithaca Annex (208 E. Buffalo St., near Aurora); dates subject to change.

*March 24: "Solar and Wind Electric" Whether you’re off-the-grid or on, looking to start small or for a commercial-sized system, find out your options, how to size your system, and some of the financial incentives available.

*March 31: "Green Heating Options" Starting with house design, speakers will cover the basics of point-source heating, geothermal and solar thermal systems, and masonry heaters/stoves.

Seminars are presented by Tompkins County Cooperative Extension in partnership with the Ithaca Green Building Alliance. Fee: $5/seminar or $20/series, Ithaca Hours accepted and scholarships are available. For more information, contact Guillermo Metz at mailto:gm52@cornell.edu or 272-2292, x.185, or visit
http://counties.cce.cornell.edu/tompkins/events/www.ccetompkins.org
http://www.ithacagreenbuilding.org/

Cornell pH Test Kits Provide Fast, Accurate Results

Whatever your favorite crop, proper soil pH is the foundation for profitable production. You can test soil pH quickly and accurately using a Cornell soil pH test kit. These handy, portable kits allow you to accurately determine soil pH values within the range of pH 5.0 to 7.2. Start with a representative soil sample taken from at least one dozen different locations throughout the field. Be sure to mix the sample well before running the pH test. Cornell pH test kits are available for $12 if picked up at the CCE office in Montour Falls. For more information and to order call CCE-Schuyler County at 607-535-7161.