Executive Director Highlight | |
2025 Spawning Kick Off at the Suffolk County Marine Environmental Learning Center
It was an incredible morning at the Suffolk County Marine Environmental Learning Center (SCMELC) as we hosted the Annual Spawning Kick Off!
Each year, we gather with officials, stakeholders, and volunteers at SCMELC to celebrate the start of spawning season—a crucial time for the growth, feeding, and planting of shellfish that play a vital role in our local marine ecosystem. Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness how just a few dozen adult oysters, carefully conditioned for spawning over several weeks, can produce millions of larvae in mere hours.
For more than 30 years, the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program has been producing shellfish at SCMELC to enhance and restore local waterways. The addition of a nearly 4,000-square-foot production hatchery in 2018 significantly expanded these efforts, resulting in the production of more than 125 million shellfish—including oysters, bay scallops, and hard clams—since 2021.
We are sincerely grateful to the officials and representatives who joined us:
- Assemblymember Tommy John Schiavoni
- Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine
- Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker
- Matthew Kapell, Suffolk County Economic Development & Planning
- Southold Town Councilman Greg Doroski
- Additional thanks to the staff representatives who attended on behalf of Senator Anthony Palumbo, Legislator Catherine L. Stark, and Legislator Chad Lennon.
With the support of our dedicated leaders, expert staff, and passionate volunteers, we look forward to a productive spawning season and furthering our mission of restoring Long Island’s marine ecosystems through sustainable aquaculture!
Check out some of the press coverage from the day below:
Newsday (subscription required)
Suffolk Times
LongIsland.com
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Meeting with Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg
As part of our ongoing commitment to engage with elected officials and discuss CCE Suffolk initiatives in their districts, I recently met with Suffolk County Legislator Jason A. Richberg!
We are grateful to Legislator Richberg for the opportunity to explore how CCE’s work impacts the lives of District 15 residents and to discuss potential future initiatives tailored to the community's needs. Joining Vanessa was August Ruckdeschel, Clean Energy Coordinator, as well as Parent Educator Cara Sultan and Diabetes Program Manager Linda Altenburger from the Community Education Program.
I make engaging with government representatives at every level a top priority each year. CCE Suffolk counts on these partnerships to harness the expertise of our staff and programs, ensuring that all Long Island communities receive the solutions they need.
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Updates with NYS DEC Region 1
This week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Ryan McGarry, Assistant Regional Director of NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Region 1!
During the discussion, we explored ways the agency and CCE Suffolk can continue supporting our region's ecosystems. Joining the conversation were Marine Program Director Chris Pickerell, Associate Director Lorne Brousseau, Clean Energy Coordinator August Ruckdeschel, and Associate Agriculture Program Director Dan Gilrein.
With 24 regional divisions and offices, the NYS DEC is dedicated to conserving natural resources and combating pollution across New York’s water, land, and air. CCE Suffolk is proud to collaborate with the agency on critical initiatives in agriculture, marine conservation, sustainable land management, and habitat restoration. We look forward to strengthening this partnership to protect and enhance Long Island’s natural resources for generations to come!
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Funding Discussion with the Office of Nick LaLota
My team and I sincerely appreciate Legislative Correspondent Ryan Vance from Congressman Nick LaLota's office for taking the time to meet with us. During this period of funding challenges, open communication and collaboration are more critical than ever, and we are grateful for the opportunity to engage in direct discussions about federal funding opportunities and innovative solutions.
These conversations reinforce the importance of strong partnerships in sustaining and growing the programs that benefit our communities. Through thoughtful planning, advocacy, and teamwork, we remain dedicated to ensuring that CCE Suffolk continues to serve as a vital and dependable resource for the residents of Suffolk County.
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Addressing Regional Challenges at Senator Palumbo’s Environmental Roundtable
I was honored to participate in Senator Anthony Palumbo’s annual Environmental Roundtable, a crucial forum for addressing the most pressing environmental challenges facing our region. The event convened elected officials, local stakeholders, environmental advocates, and industry experts to exchange insights, tackle challenges, and explore solutions for safeguarding Long Island’s natural resources.
CCE Suffolk extends our sincere gratitude to the elected officials who organized this important gathering and appreciates the opportunity to contribute to these vital discussions. By engaging in forums like this, CCE Suffolk remains committed to shaping policies and initiatives that protect our environment and enhance the well-being of our communities.
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Funding Development Training
At CCE Suffolk, we are committed to securing sustainable funding to support our programs and the communities we serve.
I participated in the Fundraising, Grant & Partnership Development for Extension Professionals training from the Extension Foundation, gaining new insights into identifying funding sources and building strategic partnerships. The Extension Foundation, established in 2006 by nationwide Extension leaders, works with CES and the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP) to enhance system capacity, offer programmatic support, and explore innovative methods for Extension program implementation across the US.
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Meeting of the Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Task Force
The Suffolk County Legislature Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Task Force, established by Suffolk County Legislator Jason A. Richberg in 2020, brings together healthcare experts, doctors, nurses, doulas, midwives, educators, and community members dedicated to addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes across Suffolk County. I was proud to represent CCE Suffolk at the most recent meeting.
Don't miss the Task Force's upcoming listening session, designed to foster trust in maternal healthcare and improve maternal outcomes by welcoming input from all concerned or impacted individuals. The session will take place on Wednesday, March 12, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
To participate via Zoom or submit comments via email, contact InfoDO15@suffolkcountyny.gov.
For more information, call 631-854-1111 or email InfoDO15@suffolkcountyny.gov
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Check Out Our Merch Stores!
Already looking forward to camp season 2025? Check out our online stores, featuring exclusive merchandise from Peconic Dunes, Peconic Dunes Sea Adventures, The Suffolk County Farm Camp, Sea Stars Marine Camp, and CCE Suffolk!
Whether you're looking to show support, outfit your campers for next summer, or maybe just want a piece of camp nostalgia for yourself, there's something for everyone!
Peconic Dunes
Peconic Dunes Sea Adventures
Suffolk County Farm Camp
Sea Explorers
NEW Sea Stars
CCE Suffolk
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Pre Orders are Open for the Master Gardener Native Plant Sale!
This year’s selection from North Fork Natives features 28 stunning native plants in pint, quart, and gallon containers—high quality & budget-friendly!
Order by April 5 for the best selection (last year, many sold out!). Pre-ordered plants will be reserved for pickup at the Master Gardener Plant Sale on Saturday, May 3 at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center in Yaphank.
Flip through the plant selection here
Order form
Questions? Contact Master Gardener Linda Carlson at lindalcarlson@gmail.com.
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What are CSA's?
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a farm-to-table model that connects consumers directly with local farmers. By purchasing a share of a farm’s harvest in advance, CSA members receive a regular supply of fresh, seasonal produce while helping to sustain local agriculture.
This partnership fosters a deeper connection between farmers and their communities, promoting sustainability and food security.
Across Long Island, many farms and farm stands offer CSA programs or similar initiatives, providing residents with convenient access to high-quality, locally grown food. Supporting a CSA not only ensures fresher, healthier ingredients but also strengthens the local food economy.
Interested in joining a CSA? The Long Island Farm Bureau has a great resource of more than 15 Long Island farms that currently offer a CSA program.
Learn more
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National Nutrition Month
March is National Nutrition Month!
The Community Education Program will be sharing tips and resources throughout the month to highlight this months theme, "Food Connects Us"
Find more resources here!
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Free Trainings for Child Care Providers
The Early Childhood team has some amazing trainings coming up for professionals who work with children!
• Using the Environment to Guide Pre-K Curriculum (virtual) | March 12th
Examine how the seasons and a changing environment can guide both curriculum and developmental goals.
• Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children | Friday, April 4
Learn how outside free play helps health and physical development in children.
• The Connection Between Play and Literacy (virtual) | April 9th
Learn about the connection between emergent literacy skills, child development and children’s play.
• Unpacking Risky Play | May 2nd
Investigate the idea of risky play, outline the different types of risky play, and discuss why it is important.
• Caring for Yourself in Stressful Times (virtual) | May 14th
Review strategies for stress management, discuss signs and causes of burnout, and offer suggestions for self-care.
Learn more/Register here
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Free Drug Prevention and Narcan Training Programs Available
The Community Education Program currently offers two valuable resources for your group or organization to help strengthen their support and preparedness in addressing substance use and overdose prevention.
Guiding Good Choices is a free, evidence-based drug prevention program designed for parents of children aged 9 to 14. It equips them with the tools and knowledge to guide their children through the challenges of early adolescence.
The program has been proven to:
- Reduce current alcohol use by 41%
- Lower the rates of initiation for alcohol and marijuana use
- Decrease the likelihood of experimental users advancing to heavier substance use by 54%
- Increase the chances of non-users remaining drug-free by 26%
- Reduce the likelihood of delinquent behavior
- Significantly slow the rate of multiple substance use
Additionally, the team offers free Narcan training, funded by the Suffolk County Legislature and the Suffolk County Opioid Task Force.
Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. This training is essential for empowering individuals to respond effectively in an overdose situation. Participants will learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, administer naloxone, and provide care until emergency services arrive. Upon completion, participants receive a Narcan kit.
If you are interested in scheduling either of these programs for yourselves or your school, library, agency or organization staff, please reach out to Cara Sultan, Parent Educator, at caw10@cornell.edu. Trainings are also available in Spanish.
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Tune In to the Latest Podcasts from the Community Education Program!
Parenting Tips provides current research-based information from Cornell University and other American land grant institutions.
In today's world, parenting is rewarding as well as challenging. This podcast supports parents and other caregivers by translating timely child development research into practical and helpful information to support family health and wellness.
Listen here to the latest episode: Is your child ready for a smartphone?
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Ask the Family Educator
by Maxine Roeper Cohen, M.S.
Why are so many young children wearing eyeglasses?
It is shocking that one in three children worldwide is nearsighted! This statistic is based on a research paper which analyzed 276 studies, involving more than 5.4 million children and adolescents in 50 countries across all six continents (British Journal of Ophthalmology-Sept, 2024). Nearsightedness (myopia) refers to clearly seeing objects which are close up, but having difficulty seeing objects which are further away. It’s predicted that by 2050, 40% of children will have myopia. There are regional differences, and children in East Asian countries have the highest rate of myopia. It is most interesting that these children start formal education at ages 2 or 3, generally considered preschool ages in the U.S. This is a critical period of visual development, and children are vulnerable to environmental stressors.
We as parents can protect our children’s eyesight by spending time outside together in physical activity. Play ball together, ride bikes, and take hikes. Relieve eyestrain (yours and their) by decreasing time spent concentrating on computers, cell phones, and other tech devices. A balance of activities is optimal to relax the eyes. Help your children now by encouraging a healthy lifestyle in which they act on their world rather than passively stare at screens. Your family will be healthier, stronger, and happier.
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Suffolk County Farm & 4-H | |
Baby Goats at the Farm!
Welcome the newest arrivals at Suffolk County Farm & Education Center!
We’re thrilled to introduce our newest kids—four girls and two boys. The boys arrived on Sunday, February 2nd, followed by two girls in the afternoon of February 4th, and another two that night.
These little ones are full of energy and thriving! For now, they’re staying cozy in the barn and are not yet available for public viewing—but we’ll be sure to share updates as they grow. Stay tuned!
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AP Speaks with CCE Suffolk on Backyard Chickens
Kate Perz, Suffolk County 4-H Animal Science Coordinator at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, was recently interviewed by the Associated Press to share her expertise on raising backyard chickens.
The article explores the rising interest in backyard poultry, fueled by increasing egg prices due to inflation and bird flu outbreaks. While the idea of keeping chickens may seem like a cost-effective solution, experts caution that it requires thoughtful planning, upfront investment, and awareness of local regulations.
“You have to really look at how many eggs you’re eating and what the cost of those are versus what you would be spending,” Kate explained.
Read the full article here
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), in this case strain H5N1, is a highly contagious virus impacting poultry and wildlife across the United States since 2022. This disease can cause a range of clinical symptoms, progress rapidly, and is often fatal. H5N1 spreads primarily through bird-to-bird contact, as well as by surfaces contaminated with infected feces or saliva (such as shoes, clothing, or equipment).
For further information and resources, click here
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Suffolk County Farm Tours with Lety Algeri and Laura Ahearn
We were thrilled to welcome two extraordinary guests for a pair of special Suffolk County Farm tours: Lety Algeri, Founder of Plant Up, and Laura Ahearn, Executive Director of The Crime Victims Center.
Lety is an inspiring advocate for sustainable food access and education through aeroponic vertical gardening. As the leader of Plant Up, she has pioneered initiatives like The School Seeds Program, which brings hands-on, project-based learning into classrooms through indoor vertical gardens. This impactful program has allowed thousands of Long Island students to engage with their food and cultivate healthier eating habits.
Laura, a New York State Licensed Attorney and Social Worker, is the founder and executive director of The Crime Victims Center. Under her leadership, the Center provides trauma-informed support to victims of violent crime, focusing on preventing and treating child sexual abuse, rape, and supporting elderly, minor, and disabled crime victims.
We enjoyed discussing potential future collaborations with both Lety and Laura, who even had the chance to meet the farm’s adorable new baby goats!
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Try the Farm's 1 Mile Walk!
Planning to visit the farm soon? Enjoy a refreshing workout amongst the fields and animals!
Check out the one-mile walk route here
You can also join our Executive Director on her Thursday and Friday morning runs on the property! Please email vl332@cornell.edu to sign up.
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Let’s Pump Up the Heat Babylon
The CCE Suffolk Clean Energy Program hosted a free, interactive Energy Literacy workshop at the Babylon Library, helping attendees learn practical ways to save money and reduce their energy bills!
This workshop is part of our Let’s Pump Up the Heat campaign, a collaborative effort with Town of Babylon Green Homes and Renewable Energy Long Island.
Each participant received a FREE DIY weatherization kit, featuring energy-saving essentials like an advanced power strip, LED light bulbs, a window shrink-and-seal insulation kit, and weatherstripping for doors and windows.
Would your business, library, religious organization, or nonprofit like to host a workshop? Contact Clean Energy Coordinator August Ruckdeschel at ar2464@cornell.edu to set up your own event!
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Clean Energy For the Culture at Nassau Coliseum
The team presented on clean energy programs and incentives available to Long Islanders at the Clean Energy For the Culture Event at Nassau Coliseum!
This event was created to engage and educate Long Island communities about the transformative power of clean and renewable energy. The day also featured Hip-Hop icon Jim Jones, global thought leader 19 Keys, and top renewable energy executives.
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CCE Clean Energy Staff Partner with Island Harvest in Mastic
Both English and Spanish language Clean Energy staffers were with Island Harvest in Mastic yesterday to help our local residents save money on their home energy bills and access FREE home energy assessments.
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Home Electrification Appliance Rebate (HEAR)
Home Electrification Appliance Rebate (HEAR) funding through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) recently expanded the incentives that income eligible Long Islanders can currently receive through the EmPower+ program and local utility programs to make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient. This new federal funding means that low-income households could be eligible for up to $40,000* in FREE home weatherization projects and heat pump installations, and moderate-income households are eligible for approximately $25,000* through applicable programs for the same projects. Refer to the eligibility table below to understand the amount your household could be eligible for through state programs.
This funding is applied toward the cost of energy efficiency improvements, including air sealing, insulation, heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical service and wiring upgrades. Qualified, participating contractors will help determine necessary improvements and what households are eligible for during the home energy assessment prior to starting any project.
Rebates and incentives are available while funding lasts so please sign up today! Go ahead and start your Empower+ application NOW or contact us at the Long Island Clean Energy Hub at LICleanEnergy@cornell.edu or
(516) 832-2591 ext. 125 for knowledgeable, personalized attention for any questions you might have!
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CCE Suffolk Marine Program Efforts Highlighted in Newsday
An article by Mark Harrington from Newsday explores the challenges and ongoing initiatives surrounding the restoration of shellfish populations on Long Island, particularly focusing on bay scallops and oysters. The piece highlights the crucial role of the CCE Suffolk Marine Program and its dedicated staff in these efforts.
At the heart of these restoration efforts is the shellfish hatchery in Southold, which is playing an essential role in revitalizing the oyster industry—a once-vibrant economic driver for Long Island. This year's spawning season began with an ambitious goal: to produce up to 15 million oysters, supporting local restoration initiatives and bolstering commercial hatcheries.
Meanwhile, the Bay Scallop Restoration Program, led by Harrison Tobi, is collaborating with Stony Brook University to tackle a pathogen that has decimated the Peconic Bay scallop population since 2019. The program is investigating the genetic diversity of scallops by introducing broodstock from other regions, with the aim of restoring the fishery and supporting local jobs. Despite the obstacles, Tobi remains optimistic that these efforts will help reverse the decline and restore the scallop population.
The ongoing work at CCE Suffolk’s shellfish hatcheries is vital for both ecological restoration and the recovery of local industries. Read the full article here
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Supporting Local Seafood at Taste of New York Event in Albany
The CCE Marine Program's Choose Local FISH team was honored to help represent Long Island seafood producers at the Taste of New York event in Albany!
This gathering brought together food producers from across the state to connect with elected officials, discuss industry challenges, and explore ways our office can support the growth of local, high-quality agricultural and seafood products on Long Island and throughout New York.
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2025 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island
Last night, members of our shellfish hatchery team were recognized alongside the REACH Rotary Club, NY and the Town of Huntington at the inaugural 2025 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, held at The Heritage Club in Bethpage! This event celebrated visionaries, advocates, and trailblazers dedicated to shaping a more sustainable future for Long Island.
Our team was honored for their work on the Huntington-Northport Oyster Reef Project, a collaborative initiative with the Town of Huntington and local Rotary Clubs. Through this project, tiny oyster larvae (spat) attach to recycled shells at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program hatchery in Southold, then mature in specialized nursery docks which are cared for by volunteers. Once the juvenile oysters reach a suitable size, they are planted on designated bay reef sites. As these oysters grow and spawn, they will release millions of larvae, boosting the wild oyster population and naturally filtering pollutants from the water, helping to combat harmful algal blooms and improve ecosystem resilience.
Special thank you to James Wylie, President of the REACH Rotary Club and Lead Project Coordinator of the Huntington-Northport Oyster Reef Project!
Learn more about the Huntington-Northport Oyster Reef Project
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New Project to Study LED Lights and Jonah Crab
The Marine Program is collaborating with New York commercial fishers on a $164,000 study funded by New York Sea Grant to examine the effects of LED lights in Jonah crab fishery pots. The project explores the use of PotLights to enhance catch efficiency and reduce reliance on natural bait, potentially benefiting both the environment and fishers’ costs.
Alex Mercado and Michael Bowen of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Fisheries Program will be leading the project. “We hope that this project will help us to identify additional strategies for fishermen to utilize in their day-to-day operations,” Mercado said.
Additionally, CCE Suffolk County’s Dr. Stephen Tettelbach and Harrison Tobi are assisting Stony Brook University in a $240,000 study on parasite dynamics affecting bay scallops. Other NYSG-funded projects include developing eDNA-based tools to assess environmental risks in NY Great Lakes coastal waters and studying the benefits of restoring native fish to Lake Ontario’s food web.
These efforts are part of NYSG’s broader $2.15 million research initiative supporting economic and environmental priorities across New York’s fisheries and coastal ecosystems.
Learn more
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Electronic Vessel Trip Reporting Training and Resources
Modernizing data collection systems is essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Long Island’s recreational fishing industry—a cornerstone of the region’s history, culture, and economy.
As New York shifts from paper-based to electronic reporting, Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program staff will equip fishermen with the necessary technology, training, and technical support to implement the Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program’s eTrips system.
The eVTR project will streamline mandatory reporting, reducing the burden on fishermen while enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of fisheries-dependent data collection through targeted education and outreach efforts.
Upcoming training dates include:
February 27th | 2:00pm to 4:00pm
CCE Suffolk Office - 423 Griffing Ave, Riverhead
March 6th | 2:00pm to 4:00pm
CCE Suffolk Office - 423 Griffing Ave, Riverhead
March 7th | 12:00pm to 4:00pm
NYS DEC Office – 123 Kings Park Blvd, Kings Park
March 12th | 3:00pm to 7:00pm
NYSDEC Region 3 Office - 21 S Putt Corners Rd, New Paltz
March 18th | 12:00pm to 3:30pm
Montauk Library - 871 Montauk Hwy, Montauk
March 28th | 10:00am to 12:00pm
Riverhead Public Library - 330 Court St, Riverhead
Learn more
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CCE Suffolk Board of Directors Highlight
TJ Star
TJ Star is an experienced landscaper based in Mt. Sinai, NY, with a strong background in the industry and a deep understanding of landscaping practices.
With years of hands-on experience, his expertise plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of CCE Suffolk, particularly within the Agriculture Program. By offering practical insights and guidance, TJ helps strengthen initiatives that promote sustainable land management, agricultural education, and community engagement.
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Next Board of Directors Meetings
March 19, 2025 – 423 Griffing Ave., Riverhead
May 21, 2025 – LI Horticultural Research & Extension Center, 3059 Sound Ave., Riverhead
July 16, 2025 – SC Marine Education & Learning Center, 3690 Cedar Beach Road, Southold
September 17, 2025 – SC Farm & Education Center, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank
November 19, 2025 – Annual Meeting, Location TBD
Learn more
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Parent and Nutrition Classes
Tuesday, March 4, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Join us for parenting and nutrition programs for parents with young children. These programs are free; however, pre-registration is required. All programs will be approximately 1 hour.
Coping with Temper Tantrums
March 4, 2025 at 10:00am
March 12, 2025 at 1:00pm
Although temper tantrums are normal for children between the ages of one and five, they can make a parent feel frustrated and embarrassed. Maybe you even feel like having a tantrum of your own. What should you do? In this workshop, we will discuss the causes of tantrums, what can be done to minimize them, and the best ways to deal with them when they do occur.
Feeding Your Family on a Budget
March 5, 2025 at 10:00am
Learn tips and tricks for how to feed your family nutritious and delicious meals without breaking the bank. This creative class is led by a CCE Nutritionist.
Learn more
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Stewardship Session: Shellfish 101
Thursday, March 6, 2025, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Please join our Shellfish Stewardship Session led by one of our Aquaculture Specialists!
Every year our Southold shellfish hatcheries produce millions of oysters, hard clams, and bay scallops for various restoration and enhancement projects — but what does that really mean? At this event you will learn about the life cycles and reproduction behaviors of these valued local shellfish species followed by a tour our facility to get a first-hand view of how we produce and care for them.
This Shellfish Stewardship Session will be a fun, educational, and immersive experience that is not one to miss! Appropriate for all ages, but parent supervision is required for participants under the age of 16.
Learn more
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2025 St. Patrick's Day Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, March 8, 2025, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Join us for a St. Patrick's Day Scavenger Hunt at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center!
The Leprechaun's are back, and they've hidden their gold all across the farm! We'll need your help collecting it all. Join us Saturday, March 8th for our annual hunt for the Leprechaun's pot of gold!
Registration is required for both children and adults
Learn more
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Mobile Diabetes Screening Event
Saturday, March 8, 2025, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Need help managing your diabetes? Curious about your numbers? Sun River Health will be providing free, onsite diabetes screening services!
Visit our mobile van clinic to get your A1C tested and learn about diabetes risk factors, signs & symptoms, and healthy eating.
St. Agnes Church
523 Front Street
Greenport, NY 11944
While you wait, you'll be able to meet our registered dietitians and nutrition educators from CCE Suffolk.
Learn more
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Marsh Madness - Tiana Bayside Cleanup
Saturday, March 8, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Participants will help us clean the marshlands & beach of man made debris and learn about importance of marsh grasses as we discuss decreases in marshlands and the ways that CCE is working to restore them.
The cold winter months are ideal for cleaning deep into the marshes as the grasses have not started to grow, ticks & mosquitos for the most part are not active and before spring wildlife activity increases.
Removal of the litter and debris will improve water quality and habitat for fish, shellfish, shorebirds, wading birds, waterfowl, as well as rare species including the saltmarsh sparrow, diamondback terrapin and the snowy owl.
Don't forget to wear waterproof shoes, bring your own gloves, bucket and any other tools that will help. Let's work together to keep our marsh clean and thriving!
Learn more
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Food as Medicine
Monday, March 10, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, March 17, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, March 24, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, March 31, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, April 7, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, April 14, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Get a Taste for Nutrition with our FREE VIRTUAL Diabetes Nutrition Workshops with a CCE Suffolk Diabetes Nutrition Educator!
Topics include Portion Control, Supermarket Tactics & Label Reading, and more.
Sesiones disponibles en español
Learn more
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Diabetes Support Group
Monday, March 10, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, May 12, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, July 14, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, September 8, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Monday, November 10, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Free virtual diabetes support, lead by a CCE Suffolk Diabetes Educator
Learn more
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Parent Talks
Monday, March 10, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Monday, March 10, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM
Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM
Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM
Join us for open conversations about living with children! These 45-minute talks are for parents and other caregivers of children between the ages of 0 -12. There is no fee to participate in these conversations, however advanced registration is required.
Learn more/Register here
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Guiding Good Choices: Parent Education Workshop
Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thursday, March 20, 2025, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Guiding Good Choices is a free evidenced based drug use prevention program that provides parents of children 9 to 14 years old with the knowledge and skills needed to guide their children through early adolescence.
This introductory one-hour workshop is designed for parents and caregivers to build stronger family relationships with science-backed information.
You will learn how to:
- Improve parent-child communication
- Manage conflicts
- Effectively reduce drug use in kids
Learn more
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Narcan Training
Friday, March 14, 2025, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Friday, April 25, 2025, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Learn to Save Lives!
Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. Now more than ever, individuals are encouraged to prepare themselves with the training and confidence they need to respond quickly in an overdose situation.
Training will include:
- How to recognize an opioid overdose
- How to administer Narcan
- How to care for an individual until emergency services arrive
Learn more/Register
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Suffolk County Fertilizer Turf Management Course
Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
For retailers, landscapers, and lawn care professionals
On Long Island, we depend on our groundwater for drinking water. But the nitrogen fertilizer we apply to our lawns - especially when the grass is dormant - can move down through the soil and pollute our aquifer. To protect Long Island's waters, Suffolk County Local Law No. 41-2007 was passed to reduce nitrogen pollution to our groundwater and surface waters through the overall reduction and better management of fertilizer applications. Elements of the law include a ban on applying fertilizer in Suffolk County from November 1 to April 1, an educational course requirement for lawn care professionals, and educational signs and brochures posted in fertilizer retail establishments.
Learn more
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Rockets with Chris
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday, March 31, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Fire Rockets | 3/19
In this class we will talk about rockets and how they fly, assemble a solid fuel rocket kit and engine, then go outside and launch it from our electronic launch pad. You will take your rocket home so you can launch it again and again, with adult supervision.
Learn more
Water Rockets | 3/26 & 3/31
In this class we will talk about rockets and how they fly, build a rocket out of a soda bottle, then go outside and launch it from our custom-built compressed air powered launch pad. You will take your rocket home, along with instructions to build your own launch pad.
Learn more
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Back to the Bays & Scallops: Acrylic Painting on Canvas
Thursday, March 20, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Learn about Back to the Bays Initiative & then get creative acrylic painting bay scallops on canvas! No prior experience needed!
Learn more
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Ask the Dietician
Friday, March 21, 2025, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Friday, April 18, 2025, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
+ more
Join us for a free question and answer session with a CCE Suffolk nutrition expert!
Middle Country Library
575 Middle Country Road | Selden, NY
Learn more
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Stewardship Session: Shellfish 101
Thursday, March 27, 2025, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Join CCE Marine’s Back to the Bays Habitat Specialists and Educators in a unique hands-on experience preparing our new demonstrative coastal rain garden. This will include shaping sand dunes and planting various shrubs and dune grass. While working with native coastal plant species you will learn about their many important roles throughout this experience.
Please come prepared in clothes that you are ok with getting dirty. Also, bring gardening gloves and hand shovels if you have. (These will be provided, but supplies are limited.)
This is a great opportunity for high school students to get service hours!
We look forward to seeing you, and thank you for your participation!
Learn more
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Lactation Support Group
Friday, March 28, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Friday, April 25, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Friday, May 23, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Friday, June 27, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join us at our free, drop-in, in-person breastfeeding support group to get advice, meet other parents, and share experiences!
Location:
Westhampton Free Library
7 Library Avenue
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
Learn more
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New York Seafood Summit
Friday, March 28, 2025, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Join Us for the 9th Annual New York Sea Grant Seafood Summit!
We’re thrilled to invite you to this year’s New York Seafood Summit, a premier gathering for seafood professionals—including fishermen, aquaculturists, retailers, processors, and more. This event fosters industry-wide collaboration, meaningful discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
The Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program is proud to once again host the Downstate Summit, alongside the Upstate Summit in Geneva, NY (March 3rd) and the Midstate Summit in Hyde Park (June 2nd).
Friday, March 28th | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
The Riverhead Free Library | 330 Court St., Riverhead, NY 11901
This year’s program will feature:
• Key updates from industry associations
• Discussions on policy, outreach, and education
• A diverse panel of industry experts
• A resource fair and seafood tasting, celebrating Long Island’s seafood heritage
Learn more/Register
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Mini Marine Biologist
Sunday, March 30, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday, April 27, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday, June 8, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday, August 3, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Investigate the largest things in the ocean and the tiniest things and how the interact! Fun facts about them and who eats who! Make a mighty craft to take home!
What is migration? Come explore the animals near the shore that migrate! How do they know where to go and why do they go there? How do they know when it’s time to move and how do they make their way back? Just a few questions we’ll discover answers to as we learn about and touch some live animals, take a migration walk and make a craft on the go!
Looking for a unique way to spend time with your preschooler? Join us for a fun- filled two hours as you and your child learn about the marine environment. This very special program includes hands-on time with live marine animals, beach activities, and a craft. This is a great way to introduce your child to marine ecology!
Learn more/Register
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3D Printing
Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Learn everything you need to know to go from a 3D model file to an actual 3D printed item. We will learn how to set up a 3D printer, find and download model files, tweak models and print. Each student will choose one model from a selection, to print and bring home.
The information learned from this class will be valuable whether you are printing on your own printer or using a printer at your local library or maker lab.
Learn more
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Spring Gardening School 2025
Join us for Spring Gardening School on Saturday, April 5th at the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center!
This event will feature workshops such as Native Plant Design, Pollinator Gardens, Pruning Techniques, Hydrangea Care, Berries for Birds, and much more.
Some sessions are limited in size, and registration is first come, first served.
Learn more and register here
View the full event brochure here
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Bilingual Diabetes Nutrition Education Workshop Series
Held via Zoom
English
Mondays: January 13th - April 14th
6:30-7:30 pm
Spanish
Tuesdays January 14th - April 7th
6:30-7:30 pm
https://cornell.zoom.us/j/91807484123?pwd=eXBEYlJoWE0vNk1RekZRYnk0cUFaQT09
Meeting ID 918 0748 4123 • Passcode: Diabetes
Email: RegistrationCCES@Cornell.edu
Text/Call (631) 759-4985 with any questions
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Chicken Science
Monday, April 14, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thursday, April 17, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
What can a chicken teach you about science? Come join us for 5 sessions of challenges, experiments and projects all based on chickens. Do science, learn about chickens: win, win!
Learn more
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Summer Camp 2025
We are still looking to fill some positions for Summer 2025 across many of our awesome camps!
Peconic Dunes Camp
Aquatics Director | Assistant Camp Director for Wellness | Camp Counselor | CIT Coordinator | Day Camp Coordinator | Food Service Manager/Head Cook | Head Lifeguard | Health Assistant | Health Director | Housekeeper | Kitchen Workers | Program Director | Sr. Camp Counselor/Office Assistant | Unit Coordinator
Sea Stars Camp
Camp Counselor
View All Employment & Volunteer Opportunities Here
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Explore the CCE Suffolk Spanish
Facebook and Instagram Pages!
Discover information about upcoming events and workshops conducted in Spanish, receive valuable health tips and tricks, and more!
Facebook
Instagram
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Have something you'd like included in our monthly newsletter? Send submissions to
Jacob Ocon, Communications Coordinator
jfo47@cornell.edu
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