Cornell Small Farms Program

06/18/2026

In our latest Give Trees a Chance newsletter, a quarterly email from our Agroforestry team, we share exciting news and upcoming events — from new silvopasture installations at Cornell to opportunities to gather together and learn!

We have new resources, workshops, and more for all of your agroforestry needs. Learn more:

There is so much happening in the realm of agroforestry that it’s hard to keep up. New research projects, collaborations, value chains, and businesses are showing up faster than the nut sprouts in my air pruned raised bed. Though we’re still in the early stages of agroforestry adoption and growt...

06/17/2026

This month we celebrate the farmers who grow the fresh, nutritious foods that nourish our communities and strengthen New York's local food system.

🌱 The majority of New York farms are small or mid-sized family operations, and many grow a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables for local markets, CSAs, and farm stands across the state.

🍎 New York is the second-largest apple-producing state in the U.S., with generations of farmers growing one of the state's most iconic crops.

🥕 Small farms play a key role in strengthening local food systems in New York, helping keep fresh produce available within regional markets rather than long supply chains.

Thank you to the farmers whose dedication keeps our tables fresh, local, and full of life! Follow to learn and grow with us.

06/11/2026

This month, we celebrate the dairy farmers who help keep New York's agricultural heritage strong!

- Many of New York's dairy farms are family-owned operations, with generations of farmers caring for the land, animals, and their communities.
- Small and mid-sized dairy farms are a vital part of New York's agricultural economy, helping keep food production local and rural communities thriving. ⠀
- New York dairy farmers contribute to a thriving local food system, supplying milk for award-winning cheese, yogurt, butter, and other dairy products produced throughout the state. ⠀
- Small farms are the backbone of New York agriculture, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening regional economies. ⠀
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Thank you to the farmers who make it all possible!

06/11/2026

06/10/2026

Ready to grow your skills this season? From mushroom cultivation and agroforestry to ginseng production and networking with other farmers, we have exciting upcoming events designed to help you learn, connect, and strengthen your farm.

Explore all upcoming events and register at: smallfarms.cornell.edu/events

06/09/2026

Join us on Saturday, June 20, at Hawk Meadow Farm in Trumansburg, NY, for a hands-on workshop exploring the fundamentals of managing your own collection of shiitake mushroom logs using techniques that apply to most specialty mushrooms, including wood-decomposing Lion’s Mane and Oyster.

Learn more and register: https://smallfarms.cornell.edu/event/2026-06-20-shiitake-mushroom-log-yard-management-workshop/

In this workshop, we will cover the basics of shiitake mushroom log yard management in a natural woodland setting. These production techniques result in the

06/08/2026

At the Cornell Small Farms Program, we believe small-scale farming is more than a job, it’s a dignified, viable, and meaningful way of life.

Our mission is built around 3 core goals:
🌽 Supporting farms
🤝 Building farmer resilience
🌻 Cultivating networks of care and community

Through online and in-person education, workshops, events, and hands-on training, we’re helping strengthen farms and farming communities across NYS. Explore our courses, events, and community on our website: smallfarms.cornell.edu.

Whether you’re just starting your farming journey, already farming for years, or simply love fresh local food and supporting farmers, there’s a place for you here. Follow to learn and grow with us!

06/04/2026

Happy !

Here at the Department, we are proud to support and uplift the members of the LGBTQ+ community who grow our food, nourish our families, and sustain our communities, tend to our land, and fuel our economy.

Our state has long been a trailblazer in pursuing equality, accessibility, and inclusivity for all New Yorkers, and we are proud to reaffirm what we know to be true: agriculture is and always will be for everyone.

06/03/2026

Are you interested in adding pigs to your farm operation or improving your current swine management practices on small acreage?

Join us this weekend at ALL Family Farm for the latest event in a series that our Farm Ops project is running on raising pigs. Their small, family-run and veteran-owned farm, located in the Southern Catskill Region of New York, focuses on raising Berkshire pigs. Their farm tour will teach you the fundamentals of raising pigs in a sustainable and efficient while maximizing limited land resources.

Learn more and register:

This farm tour is designed specifically for farmers interested in adding pigs to their operation or improving their current swine management practices on