Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County recently held its first quarterly All Staff Meeting, with strong participation both in person and via Zoom. Administrative and program teams shared updates on their work from the first quarter and plans for the months ahead, while new staff were welcomed to the Energy team and the Suffolk County Farm. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the Community Education team also led a brief presentation and interactive wellness activity. The meeting reflected continued momentum across programs and a shared focus on the work ahead.

Town of Babylon 2026 Women's History Month March 27th

Last week, the Town of Babylon hosted its Women’s History Month Program, recognizing the achievements and leadership of women across the community. We are proud to share that CCE Suffolk Executive Director, Vanessa Pino Lockel, was honored among this inspiring group. Thank you to Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Human Services Committee Chair DuWayne Gregory, Town Clerk Geraldine Compitello, Tax Receiver Jennifer Montiglio, and the Town of Babylon Human Services Department for hosting, and congratulations to Vanessa on this well-deserved recognition.

Vanessa Lockel Honored as Legislative District 6 Woman of Distinction March 10th

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County proudly celebrated Executive Director Vanessa Pino Lockel, who was honored as Suffolk County District 6’s Woman of Distinction at the Suffolk County Women of Distinction Luncheon. Presented by Legislator Chad Lennon, this recognition from the Suffolk County Legislature highlighted her continued leadership and commitment to the community.

The Suffolk County Farm & Education Center recently welcomed Suffolk County Legislators Chad Lennon and Dominick Thorne, along with members of the Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District, Corey Humphrey, Kaitlyn Boyle, and Talia Haik, for a meeting and tour focused on shared priorities. The visit highlighted opportunities to further connect the Farm’s agricultural, educational, and community-based work with Soil and Water’s efforts to protect natural resources, strengthen environmental stewardship, and advance practical conservation solutions that benefit Suffolk County residents.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County recently met with The Retreat to discuss their work and explore potential collaborative programming at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center. The Retreat supports individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, abuse, and human trafficking through a range of critical services. We look forward to continuing this partnership and identifying opportunities that benefit Suffolk County residents. The Retreat is also promoting spring sign-ups for their Teen Leadership Council and participation in their 2026 NYC Marathon team.

Legislator RJ Renna Visit March 12th

Executive Director Vanessa Pino Lockel met with Suffolk County Legislator RJ Renna of the 14th District for a productive discussion that included a district overview of how Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County supports local communities. From agriculture and marine programs to youth development, community education, and energy initiatives, CCE Suffolk serves as a valuable resource for residents across the district. We appreciate the opportunity to connect and look forward to continued collaboration.

Legislator Dominick Thorne Visits the Farm March 20th

Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne visited the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, touring programs that highlight the Farm’s impact in the community. He learned about the CCE Suffolk Independent Group Home Living, Inc. work program for adults with developmental disabilities, the Little Farmers nature-based preschool, and joined 4-H Youth Development Educator Nicole Fiorentino for a wagon tour showcasing youth development, agricultural education, and community engagement across Suffolk County. We appreciated the opportunity to share this work and look forward to welcoming more partners and stakeholders to the Farm.

What's New in Washington March 16th

Executive Director Vanessa Pino Lockel attended the Long Island Association’s “What’s New in Washington” forum, where members of the Long Island Congressional Delegation, Congressman Nick LaLota, Congressman Andrew Garbarino, Congressman Tom Suozzi, and Congresswoman Laura Gillen, shared updates on federal issues impacting the region. Opportunities like this help Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County stay connected with regional leaders and continue building partnerships that support Long Island’s communities, environment, and local industries.

Suffolk County Maternal Morbidity Mortality Task Force

March 11th

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County participated in a recent meeting of the Suffolk County Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Task Force, an initiative started by Suffolk County Legislator Jason A. Richberg to address maternal health disparities and improve outcomes for mothers across the county. By bringing together healthcare professionals, local organizations, and community members, the task force works to analyze data, strengthen postpartum care, and promote more equitable maternal health for all families.

Assemblywoman Kassay February Mission Event Letter

We were grateful to be part of this meaningful community initiative and thank Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay of New York State’s 4th District for recognizing CCE's diabetes educators and the vital role they play in the community. Her support highlights the importance of early detection through A1C screenings and research-based education. We look forward to continuing to work together to provide relevant nutrition resources and make a positive impact.

For more diabetes resources go to: Click Here

Agriculture Literacy Week took place the week of March 16th, reaching 80 classrooms across Suffolk County and helping students better understand where their food comes from and the role agriculture plays in everyday life. We’re grateful to New York Agriculture in the Classroom for providing books and materials, and to our partners and volunteers who helped bring the program into classrooms.

This year’s book, Seasons on the Farm, introduced students to the year round care of farm animals through engaging lessons and activities, helping create a meaningful and memorable learning experience for students across the county.

For more information or to participate in the 2027 program, contact Brittany Naumann at bn224@cornell.edu.

2026 Veterinary Medicine Career Exploration Graduation

March 25th

The 2026 Veterinary Medicine Career Exploration Program had another successful year, welcoming 39 high school students in grades 10–12 from the Bronx to Mattituck. Of those, 33 completed the program and earned a Certificate of Completion, along with eligibility for a veterinary school scholarship through the Long Island Veterinary Medical Association (LIVMA). Co-hosted with LIVMA, the program included a series of Wednesday evening lectures at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, a veterinarian shadowing experience, a farm tour, and presentations from nine guest experts. We look forward to welcoming next year’s class.

Click the picture to register

Summer Camp at the Farm offers K–10 youth hands-on experiences in agriculture, animal science, nutrition, healthy living, and life skills on a historic 150-year-old working farm. Guided by the 4-H Positive Youth Development framework, the program nurtures confidence, teamwork, and respect while creating meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.

Join us for Mayfest at the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, featuring the Giant Master Gardener Plant Sale, three gardening programs, and preorder native plant pick-up. Browse a wide selection of herbs, annuals, vegetables, perennials, small shrubs, and native plants at very reasonable prices. For the plant sale, the barn doors open at 8 AM for the best selection, and cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.

The 2026 Annual Awards Gala hosted by the Long Island Farm Bureau celebrated individuals making a lasting impact on Long Island agriculture. This year’s honorees included Herb Strobel, recipient of the Amherst Davis Memorial Farmer Citizen Award, and Sarah Lansdale, recipient of the Long Island Farm Bureau Citizen Award, both recognized for their outstanding dedication and contributions to the agricultural community. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County was proud to be part of the celebration.

The 2026 class of the Master Gardener Volunteers Program is continuing their training, building on their horticultural knowledge and refining the skills needed to support our community. Through a mix of hands-on experiences and classroom instruction, they are preparing for another season of delivering research-based gardening guidance, educational programs, and community outreach.

The Nutrition Team recently wrapped up their 30 Plants a Week Challenge for National Nutrition Month, encouraging participants to incorporate a wider variety of plant-based foods into their meals. Throughout the month, the team demonstrated how simple and enjoyable it can be to add more fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole foods using fresh, canned, frozen, and dried options. Many members throughout CCE Suffolk decided to join in on the challenge as they couldn't resist the fun. The challenge highlighted that small, practical changes can make a meaningful difference and inspire lasting healthy habits.

The Annual Gospel Health Fest 2026 will take place on Saturday, April 11 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at the Van Nostrand Theater on the Suffolk County Community College Grant Campus in Brentwood. CCE Community Education Diabetes Educators will be on hand at the event. This community event celebrates health, spirit, and connection, bringing together local organizations and residents for an evening of engagement, resources, and entertainment.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s EFNEP program recently celebrated participants completing two nutrition education workshop series in the community. Michelle Saavedra-Cedeño led a six week program held at Eastern Suffolk BOCES in Riverhead, organized by Career Planning Specialist Sharon Goeller, where students from Cynthia Lombard’s class completed the program on March 11 and celebrated with warm turkey chili. EFNEP was also offered at the Parent Resource Center of Port Washington, coordinated by Analia Quispe, where participating families marked completion on March 19 with steel cut oatmeal and a variety of toppings.

The Family Health and Wellness team released a new episode in their ongoing podcast series, Introducing a New Sibling, now available on SoundCloud. Tune in for helpful insights and guidance for growing families.

To listen to this podcast and for future podcast episodes go to: Click Here

Click Here to Learn More

We are excited to welcome the passionate individuals behind the Long Island Clean Energy Hub. From providing guidance on reducing energy costs to hosting workshops on clean energy solutions, the team offers valuable resources to help residents make informed decisions.

You can follow the Hub for more here: Facebook and Instagram

The Patchogue EV and Sustainability Fair will take place on Saturday, April 11 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Patchogue LIRR station parking lot. In celebration of Earth Month, the event will feature an electric vehicle showcase, vendor tables, family-friendly activities, and a ribbon cutting for new solar and EV charging infrastructure.

eCornell Climate Jobs Certificate: Free Tuition to NYS Residents

Join us this April for our Spring Beach Walks at the Sport Fishing Education Center in Babylon. Children ages 6–12 will explore the sandy beaches and salt marsh habitats of Long Island’s South Shore, discovering marine life and learning fun facts about the creatures that call our barrier beaches home. This 1.5-hour outdoor adventure will take place April 7 or 8 from 9:30–11:00 a.m. Tickets are $28 per child and must be purchased online in advance. Space is limited.

Click Here to Register

Looking for something fun and educational this spring break? Join Back to the Bays for “A Day at the Bay,” a hands on program where marine science meets art. Participants will explore local bayside ecosystems, learn about native species and habitats, and create art with Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program educators. Sessions take place April 8 and 9 from 10 AM to 2 PM at Bay Avenue Marina. Be sure to pack a lunch and dress for both indoor and outdoor activities.

Click Here to Register

Join Legislator Rebecca Sanin for an Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 18 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at West Hills County Park in Melville. This family-friendly event will feature live music, food trucks, a CCE Suffolk Marine touch tank, local vendors, and activities for all ages, celebrating community and environmental stewardship.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Marine Back to the Bays program was honored to receive 3rd place in the Hampton Bays St. Patrick’s Day Parade float competition. The float highlighted decades of work protecting local waters and connecting the community to marine life, and recognition included a $500 donation to support the Back to the Bays program. We thank the Hampton Bays for hosting this wonderful community tradition and appreciate the opportunity to be part of it.

Join us for ArtSEA Create + Sip Nights, a series of hands-on, creative experiences hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Marine Program. These upcoming sessions feature guided painting workshops inspired by local environments, including a saltmarsh sunrise, watercolor saltmarsh scenes, and horseshoe crabs. Learn from CCE educators while exploring coastal topics, then create your own artwork in a relaxed, social setting. Registration is required—visit our website to learn more and reserve your spot.



April 9th Registration: ArtSea Create + Sip ~ Saltmarsh Sunrise Acrylic Painting Tickets, Thursday, Apr 9 from 6 pm to 8 pm | Eventbrite

April 16th Registration: ArtSea Create & Sip ~ Salt Marsh Watercolor Tickets, Thursday, Apr 16 from 5 pm to 7 pm | Eventbrite

May 8th Registration: ArtSea Create & Sip Horseshoe Crabs Tickets, Wednesday, May 6 from 6 pm to 8 pm | Eventbrite

Join Back to the Bays for a series of upcoming Stewardship Sessions focused on hands-on coastal restoration and education. These volunteer opportunities include coastal gardening, seahorse hotel building, and shell bag assembly for oyster reef restoration—offering meaningful ways to get involved and support the health of our local waterways.

April 21st Registration: Stewardship Session: Coastal Gardening at Tiana Tickets, Tuesday, Apr 21 from 3 pm to 4:30 pm | Eventbrite

April 22nd Registration: Stewardship Session: Seahorse Hotel at Tiana Bayside Tickets, Wednesday, Apr 22 from 3 pm to 4:30 pm | Eventbrite

May 3rd Registration: Stewardship Session: Shell Bag Assembly Tickets, Sunday, May 3 at 1 pm to Monday, May 4 at 3 pm | Eventbrite

The 2026 New York Seafood Summit in Riverhead brought together fishermen, aquaculturists, chefs, retailers, and industry partners from across the region for a day of connection and collaboration. Attendees heard updates from key agencies and organizations, explored current challenges and opportunities in the seafood industry, and engaged in discussions focused on strengthening New York’s working waterfronts. Kistin Gerbino from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Marine Team also presented during the summit, contributing to the day’s discussions. Special thanks to Jerry and The Mermaid for generously donating food and staying to serve attendees, and to Gosman’s for providing fresh local fish. Events like this highlight the importance of collaboration in supporting a resilient and sustainable seafood industry across the state.

Sea Explorers Marine Camp

Sea Explorers Marine Camp is for children looking to learn more about marine life. Our marine instructors will guide your child through interactive, hands-on learning experiences designed to be educational and fun. Each Week has different themes that will keep the children busy all summer

Click Here to Register

Sea Stars Marine Camp



Each day features hands-on activities, outdoor games, arts and crafts, and engaging environmental lessons. Perfect for children interested in marine biology or curious about Long Island’s marine wildlife, week-long sessions immerse campers in marine science through interactive learning.

Click Here to Register

Peconic Dunes Camp

Located on Long Island’s North Fork between the Long Island Sound and Great Pond, Peconic Dunes offers one-week overnight and day camps with activities ranging from kayaking and snorkeling to arts, environmental science, and team sports.

Click Here to Register

Sea Adventures Marine Camp



At Sea Adventures Marine Camp, campers explore Long Island’s coastal habitats from sea floor to saltmarsh. Based at CCE Marine Program’s waterfront facility in Southold, campers engage with habitat restoration, aquaculture, water quality, and citizen science projects, while also enjoying beach-based water activities.

To Learn More Click Here

Representatives from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County recently joined Brian Sapp of National Grid, a member of our Board, and Thalia Olaya from the New York State Governor’s Office for a visit to 27 East Hemp Yard, an organic hemp farm and producer of CBD products. The group met with farmer Ryan Andoos and was also joined by Daniela Vergara, CCE Emerging Crop Specialist, and Nora Catlin, Director of the Long Island Horticultural Research and Extension Center. The visit highlighted CCE’s mission to provide resources that support the farmer and build future collaboration.

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