Back to School Tips from the Experts

While the last school year was very different for most, the 2021-22 school year presents new challenges. Many parents and children feel anxious and concerned about getting back to a new routine. Navigating the stressors of school can be tricky. Here are some parenting tips to help smooth this transition. Read more...
We are on high alert for SPOTTED LANTERNFLY, an invasive and large (1”) planthopper!

The adults are now active and most recognizable. Spotted lanternfly was first found in the US near Reading, PA in 2014 and since spread to surrounding areas, including Rockland, Orange and Tompkins Counties in NY as well as all NYC Boroughs. A few have been reported to us further east but may have hitch-hiked from infested areas. It’s a real threat to vineyards and mostly an annoyance to most everyone else (they don’t bite or damage structures).

Suspect sightings can be reported to our Diagnostic Lab staff (aw242@cornell.edu or sib7@cornell.edu) or to spottedlanternfly@dec.ny.gov.
 
Read more with this link: 
From our Fisheries Team
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DID YOU KNOW?

Atlantic Striped Bass are one of the most popular fish in the recreational fishery. Despite our best intentions, stripers experience stress and physical injury during capture and handling and, depending on the degree of these impacts, may not survive after release.

CCE has developed this project to conduct a targeted education and outreach program informing the NY recreational fishermen, associated industry, and the general public. Our goal is to introduce better fishing and handling methods in order to reduce post release mortality thus promoting environmentally sustainable recreational activities to promote the species.

This summer we have visited over 15 bait and tackle shops, multiple local beaches and marinas and attended multiple community events to spread awareness for this project. So far, our efforts have reached approximately 500 individuals throughout Long Island. We are continuing the project through the end of the year and hope to continue to spread our message throughout Long Island."
This ornamental landscape webinar series offers 5 webinars weekly starting Thursday, October 14th and ending Thursday, November 11th. Webinars are all scheduled for 6:00 to 7:30 PM. CEUs Available.
September 18th, Grab your camping gear and get ready to experience the farm like never before! Stroll around the farm and say goodnight to all the animals, take a sunset hike, enjoy an evening movie in the field, wagon rides throughout the evening, a pancake breakfast in the morning and more!
The Joy of Gardening is a 10 week, self-paced online gardening program offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension. This course is perfect for gardeners who have some experience and want to discover more successful garden strategies.
Upcoming Events
A worker on a boat holding derelict fishing equipment that has been pulled from the water.
Photo of children wearing 4-H shirts on the Farm with a counselor holding a piglet
Photo of a family seated on a couch, talking
CCE-Suffolk in the news
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Thank you Tu Prensa Local for an outstanding article and video! Bringing the great work of CCE-Suffolk to ALL of Suffolk County!

Conozca a la latina que lleva las riendas de la Extensión Cooperativa de la Universidad de Cornell en el condado de Suffolk
CCE Marine experts weigh in on shellfish die-off
Great features in Newsday this week!
Great collaboration with Thera Farms and Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez! Together, our Community Education Team promoted healthy eating and the “Double Up Food Bucks” initiative.
Our PASTA (Parenting the Second Time Around) program was a front page feature in Tuesday’s Newsday! Kudos to Dinah Castro for spearheading this project and creating a much needed support group.
Legislative Update
 
Our Agriculture Program Director Nora Catlin recently presented to Suffolk County’s Environment, Parks & Agriculture Committee. Dr. Catlin highlighted this year’s activities and reported on critical areas, like pests, diseases and invasive plants, for which our CCE educators are actively addressing and educating our constituents.
Staff Spotlight
Alex Mercado began his career at CCE as a grant writer and soon thereafter transitioned into a position that aligns with his passion for conservation and the environment. 

Welcome to Alex, our newest Fisheries Specialist!

What’s your favorite part of your job so far? 
My favorite part of the job so far is the day-to-day variability. Every day brings new opportunities to learn, meet interesting people and/or get your hands dirty, which keeps the job exciting.
 
What part of your job would people find most surprising?
I think people would be surprised to learn how closely we work with local fishermen to complete projects. Be it collecting derelict lobster traps, surveying fish populations or testing new gear, our fishermen partners are essential to project success.
 
What is one thing you wish more people knew about our local fisheries?
 One thing I wish people knew about our local fisheries is the role and extent of the commercial fishing industry in supporting Long Island’s economy. As one of the regions oldest commercial ventures, it still plays a huge part in supporting the livelihoods of thousands of people across the Island.
 
Learn more about our Fisheries Program at http://ccesuffolk.org/marine/fisheries

Photo of teenagers working as a team to play tug of war.
Now Hiring! Join our Team!

Looking to join the CCE-Suffolk crew? Know someone looking for a job? Spend your summer outdoors helping to lead and inspire the next generation. Click for more information on each of these exciting positions.