Author: Ali Mitchell

Urban Agriculture: Strengthening Food Security and Community Resilience in the Northeast

Article written by Stacey Sterns, UConn Extension

In the densely populated Northeast, urban agriculture is becoming essential for creating resilient, sustainable food systems. Through innovative research, community engagement, and educational outreach, regional universities are making strides to support urban agriculture initiatives that address food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development. This focus aligns with the goals of the Northeast Agenda, which emphasizes resilient and equitable food systems that connect urban centers with local, fresh, and accessible food.

Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Agriculture

Urban agriculture in the Northeast faces several challenges, including limited access to arable land, zoning restrictions, and the impacts of climate change on crop viability. With high land prices and intense competition for space in urban areas, aspiring farmers struggle to secure suitable plots for growing food. Climate change adds another layer of complexity, affecting growing seasons and increasing the need for controlled-environment solutions.v

Despite these obstacles, urban agriculture presents a unique opportunity to address food deserts, reduce “food miles,” and create green spaces in urban environments. By bringing food production closer to population centers, urban agriculture not only provides access to fresh produce but also creates jobs, strengthens community ties, and encourages healthier eating habits. Universities across the Northeast are leading initiatives that advance urban agriculture through research, community programming, and new technologies.

University-Led Innovations in Urban Agriculture

University of Connecticut (UConn) Extension: Empowering Communities Through Urban Agriculture

UConn Extension is a leader in connecting community members to sustainable food systems through urban agriculture education and support programs. UConn’s initiatives focus on educating local residents, particularly in underserved communities, about urban gardening and sustainable growing practices. Through programs like the Urban Farmer Training, UConn equips participants with skills in organic gardening, pest management, and crop selection, which help establish a foundational knowledge of urban food production.

Additionally, UConn Extension collaborates with community gardens and food cooperatives to enhance food access and offer workshops that address nutrition education. These efforts not only increase food security but also empower individuals to contribute to their local food systems, promoting a sense of community ownership and resilience.

Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: Advancing Controlled-Environment Agriculture

Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has been instrumental in researching and promoting controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) technologies that address urban agriculture’s unique spatial and climatic challenges. Located in New York State, Cornell is ideally situated to serve the needs of urban farmers across the Northeast. Its research on vertical farming, hydroponics, and other CEA methods supports the production of fresh produce year-round, regardless of outdoor weather conditions.

Cornell’s work has helped establish best practices for optimizing water use, light, and nutrients in indoor growing environments. These innovations are particularly relevant for urban areas with limited green space, where CEA offers a viable solution for increasing food production within a small footprint. Cornell also partners with technology companies to explore advancements in sensors, automation, and resource management, making it a hub for cutting-edge urban agriculture research and development.

University of New Hampshire (UNH): Training the Next Generation of Urban Agriculture Professionals

The University of New Hampshire (UNH) has developed a strong focus on sustainable urban agriculture, particularly in workforce development and community outreach. UNH Extension offers training programs that prepare young professionals for careers in urban agriculture by teaching them sustainable farming practices, food system economics, and the environmental impacts of food production. These programs address the aging agricultural workforce, ensuring that urban agriculture will continue to grow with a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

Additionally, UNH’s research initiatives explore sustainable practices in crop rotation, soil health, and waste reduction within urban farming contexts. Through collaborations with local businesses and nonprofits, UNH helps small-scale urban farmers develop effective business models and connect with local markets, fostering a robust, locally focused food system in New Hampshire and beyond.

Regional Collaboration for a Resilient Food System

These universities exemplify the Northeast region’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and resilient food system. By collaborating on research, sharing resources, and aligning their Extension programs with the needs of their communities, Northeast land-grant institutions are building a stronger urban agriculture network. This regional collaboration amplifies each institution’s impact, helping more people access fresh, local food while promoting economic growth and environmental stewardship.

As these universities continue to innovate and connect with their communities, urban agriculture in the Northeast is positioned to become a model for other regions seeking to balance food production with environmental sustainability. By sharing expertise, data, and best practices, universities like UConn, Cornell, and UNH are breaking down the barriers to urban farming and leading the way in creating vibrant, healthy, and resilient communities.

Looking Ahead

Urban agriculture is not just about growing food; it’s about fostering a sense of community, empowering local residents, and building a food system that can withstand the challenges of the future. With support from the UConn, Cornell University, and the University of New Hampshire, among other Northeast land-grant universities, urban agriculture is transforming the Northeast’s urban landscape. As these institutions continue their work, they are not only supporting the Northeast Agenda’s goals but also shaping a sustainable future for cities and towns across the region.

Vector-borne Diseases are Taking a Bite Out of Our Health and Safety

Article by Stacey Stearns, UConn Extension

Amber Guillemette, an Eastern Connecticut resident, couldn’t understand why she was tired and achy all the time in the mid-2000s. As a younger, fit person, it just didn’t make sense. But she easily explained away her symptoms by the increased stress at school.

Then, a routine doctor visit and blood test turned up Lyme disease – a vector-borne disease transmitted by ticks — and treatments began, along with ongoing medical challenges that she is still facing 17 years later.

“As a sophomore in high school, my entire life changed from a single tick bite, one I did not even witness,” Guillemette says. “It caused anxiety along with several food allergies that have followed me into my adulthood. I spent two months with a PICC [peripherally inserted central catheter] line and spent nearly all my time outside of school sleeping. That is when I was healthy enough to go to school.” 

It’s a cautionary tale, and one that’s become more common as the incidence of vector-borne diseases steadily increases in the Northeastern United States.

Many people recall that finding ticks during their childhood was a rare occurrence, and activities such as playing in the grass, which previous generations enjoyed, are now seldom pursued by today’s youth. Multiple environmental factors, including climate change, are contributing to the rise in vector-borne diseases, including Lyme, throughout the Northeast region.

Land-grant universities in the Northeast have research and extension missions, and these are working cooperatively on multiple fronts to address the growing problem of vector-borne diseases, whether its Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, Avian Influenza, or one of the many others targeting our region.

An Escalating Problem

Historically, vector-borne diseases were associated with tropical and subtropical areas, where the vectors – living organisms that carry and transmit the disease – could thrive. Many agencies and organizations, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization, and the Departments of Health, are all working to combat the health and safety concerns caused by vector-borne diseases. Land-grant university research and extension educational outreach are integral in helping inform these agencies and sharing their science-based resources as well, both with members of the medical profession and residents.

Climate change is an exacerbating factor, enabling an increasing number of these insects, including ticks and mosquitoes, to thrive in regions where they were not previously found, including the Northeastern part of the United States.

Other vectors include blackflies, fleas, lice, and sandflies, in addition to ticks and mosquitoes. They feed on the blood of a human or animal host, and in the process, transfer infectious pathogens. Increasing vector populations, along with the increasing geography of where they reside, are taking a bite out of human health and safety, along with that of domestic and wild animals.

Lyme, Connecticut, has an infamous history because of its association with the disease. In 1975, a group of adults and children in the area experienced arthritis-like symptoms, similar to those Guillemette described. It took physicians and researchers several years to determine the exact cause, but by 1977, it was traced back to the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis ­– known simply as the Lyme or Deer tick by many today.

Today, the CDC map shows that Lyme is rampant in the Northeastern United States, with growing incidences in the upper Midwest and areas of concern across the nation. By far, the highest number of cases is right here in our Northeast backyards. Variables including the expansion of the black-legged tick habitat, a longer tick season – partly due to climate change – and higher numbers of people spending time outdoors, mean that cases will continue rising.

Science-Based Solutions

The bite that vector-borne diseases take out of human and animal health and safety can seem daunting, but this is where research and extension from the land-grant universities in the Northeast are helping with science-based solutions.

The Northeast Agricultural Experiment Stations and Cooperative Extension System has multiple research and educational outreach programs to monitor, mitigate, and prevent vector-borne diseases. The initial step after identifying a disease is monitoring. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory at UConn, the UMASS tick testing resources, and the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, among others, all offer tick testing and disease surveillance. These services assist researchers and health officials in comprehending the prevalence of the issue, tracking its spread, and devising potential mitigation and prevention strategies.

Researchers use this and other data to inform their work. For example, researchers at the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences use surveillance, analysis, and historical data to identify high-risk areas, look for ecological trends, and use all the data to create predictive models that asses tick-borne disease risk. This information is then shared with Penn State Extension and departments of health who develop educational outreach to help residents prevent disease.

Oddly enough, not everyone bit by a tick carrying Lyme disease contract the disease. Researchers at the University of Delaware are researching competition among strains and the patterns of human infection.

Funding for the research and extension initiatives included here is from the individual universities, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and other sources, including the CDC.

References

Strengthening Agriculture and Food Systems in the Northeast

Introduction

Land-grant universities in the Northeast are driving innovation in sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate adaptation. Through research, Extension education, and community engagement, institutions such as Cornell University, the University of Vermont, Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Connecticut are fostering resilient food systems while enhancing environmental sustainability. Their work supports farmers, strengthens local food networks, and develops climate-smart agricultural practices essential for the region’s future.

Cornell University: Advancing Soil Health and Sustainable Farming

Cornell University is leading efforts to improve soil health and promote regenerative farming techniques. Research and Extension programs focus on soil testing, precision nutrient management, and cover cropping strategies that enhance soil fertility while reducing environmental impact. By adopting these science-based practices, farmers across the Northeast are improving water retention, reducing runoff, and increasing resilience to extreme weather conditions. Cornell’s work ensures that agriculture in the region remains productive and environmentally sustainable.

University of Vermont: Strengthening Local Food Systems and Community Resilience

The University of Vermont is making significant strides in strengthening regional food systems by supporting small and mid-sized farms, local markets, and farm-to-school initiatives. By enhancing direct connections between producers and consumers, these programs create economic opportunities for farmers while improving food access for communities. UVM’s work in urban agriculture and cooperative food distribution models is helping to build a more resilient regional food network.

Pennsylvania State University: Enhancing Climate Smart Agriculture

Pennsylvania State University is at the forefront of research on climate smart agriculture. Scientists and Extension specialists are developing innovative strategies to help farmers, breeding climate-resilient crops, improving water management practices, and integrating precision agriculture technologies. Penn State’s research on controlled environment agriculture and renewable energy solutions is helping farmers increase efficiency while reducing their carbon footprint.

University of Connecticut: Innovating for a Sustainable Future

The University of Connecticut (UConn) is pioneering advancements in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) to help farmers produce more food using fewer resources. Through research on precision irrigation, energy-efficient greenhouses, and integrated pest management (IPM), UConn is helping farmers optimize production while reducing water and energy use. These innovations not only support year-round food production but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system in the Northeast.

Conclusion

Cornell University, the University of Vermont, Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Connecticut exemplify the Northeast’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems. Their research-driven solutions and Extension efforts align with the Northeast Agenda’s vision of a regenerative, livable, and vibrant future. Continued investment in these initiatives will be essential for ensuring a sustainable and resilient food system in the face of climate, economic, and social challenges.

Guardians of Our Food System: How Northeast Land-Grant Universities Are Protecting Pollinators

Article by Stacey Stearns, UConn Extension

Ensuring a Future for Pollinators and Agriculture in the Northeast

Pollinators are the unsung heroes of our food system, ensuring the production of fruits, vegetables, and countless other crops. Yet, habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide exposure are threatening their survival. Across the Northeast, Land-grant universities are leading innovative research and outreach efforts to protect these critical species, supporting both biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

Pennsylvania: Penn State’s Innovative Approach to Pollinator Health

At Pennsylvania State University, researchers are leading efforts to protect pollinators through cutting-edge science and community-driven solutions. Penn State’s Center for Pollinator Research is at the forefront of studying bee health, examining factors such as habitat loss, disease, pesticides, and resilience. Their research has been instrumental in identifying best practices for maintaining robust pollinator populations while supporting agricultural productivity.

One of Penn State’s key initiatives includes Bee Monitoring Programs, which engage citizen scientists and beekeepers in tracking pollinator populations across the state. Additionally, their Extension programs provide hands-on training for farmers, landowners, and gardeners on how to create pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Delaware: Sustainable Landscaping for Pollinator Habitat

The University of Delaware is championing sustainable landscaping techniques to create pollinator-friendly environments in urban and suburban spaces. Their research has shown that homeowners, businesses, and municipalities can support pollinator populations by planting native flowers, reducing pesticide use, and maintaining diverse green spaces. Through Extension programs, Delaware researchers are empowering communities to take action, reinforcing the Northeast Agenda’s focus on environmental and community health.

Maryland: Strengthening Bee Populations Through Education and Extension

The University of Maryland is taking a proactive approach to supporting beekeepers and farmers through hands-on education. Their programs provide training on pollinator health, pest management, and best practices for maintaining thriving bee colonies. By connecting research to real-world application, Maryland’s efforts ensure that pollinators remain a cornerstone of the region’s agricultural success, reflecting the Northeast Agenda’s commitment to science literacy and sustainable food systems.

Connecticut: UConn’s Research and Extension to Protect Pollinators

At the University of Connecticut and Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, scientists and Extension specialists are working to safeguard pollinators through research, education, and community engagement. UConn Extension’s Bug Week initiative and the Connecticut Bee Atlas provide vital resources for beekeepers, gardeners, and farmers to understand pollinator health and habitat conservation. Researchers at UConn are also studying the impact of pesticides, disease, and habitat loss on bee populations, helping to inform best practices for protecting these essential species. UConn Extension programs encourage residents to plant native wildflowers, create pollinator-friendly gardens, and reduce pesticide use.

New York: Cornell’s High-Tech Approach to Pollinator Conservation

Cornell University researchers are using cutting-edge technology to address pollinator health. Their work includes developing precision agriculture tools that monitor pollinator activity and habitat quality. By leveraging data-driven insights, farmers can optimize planting strategies to support pollinators while maximizing crop yields. Cornell’s efforts align with the Northeast Agenda’s mission to build resilient food systems that integrate sustainability with agricultural productivity.

Regional Collaboration for Lasting Change

The Northeast’s Land-grant universities are working together to ensure pollinators thrive. From high-tech monitoring to community-driven conservation, these institutions are protecting the species that sustain our food supply and ecosystems. Their efforts align with the Northeast Agenda’s mission of promoting environmental resilience, sustainable agriculture, and science-based solutions for the region’s most pressing challenges.

Connect with your local Extension program and learn how you can make a difference supporting pollinators in your own backyard.

Protecting the Northeast’s Natural Legacy: Land-Grant Institutions Champion Environmental Stewardship

Article by Stacey Stearns, UConn Extension

Across the Northeast’s many landscapes—stretching from coastal watersheds to forested hillsides—land-grant institutions are leading collaborative efforts to protect natural resources and promote environmental resilience. Through science-based conservation, innovative land management, and community partnerships, these universities are fulfilling their shared mission to ensure a regenerative, livable, and vibrant region for all.

Restoring Riparian Zones and Waterways in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, researchers and Extension professionals are tackling erosion and habitat loss by restoring riparian zones—critical buffers between land and water. The team installed over 500 feet of erosion-control materials and native vegetation, leading to visibly reduced erosion and improved wildlife habitat. The initiative included community engagement, offering workshops and volunteer planting events that deepened local investment in river health.

This work not only benefits fish and wildlife but also contributes to cleaner waterways and greater resilience against stormwater runoff—challenges intensified by variable weather. It directly reflects the Northeast Agenda’s call to lead adaptation and mitigation while promoting environmental health.

Forest Stewardship for Healthy Ecosystems in Rhode Island

The University of Rhode Island’s effort to build forest stewardship capacity exemplifies long-term sustainability planning. The initiative offered forest landowners an extensive educational series on wildlife habitat, invasive species, and environmental resilience, helping them develop tailored management plans.

The result? Hundreds of acres of forestland are now under active stewardship, ensuring healthy forest ecosystems and mitigating carbon emissions. By empowering local landowners to act as stewards, this project supports the Northeast Agenda’s commitment to vibrant communities and working lands.

Community-Led Shoreline Protection in Connecticut

In Connecticut, researchers responded to growing community concern about erosion and flooding along coastal areas by testing and demonstrating innovative “living shoreline” methods. With funding from NOAA and the Long Island Sound Study, the project deployed marsh plantings, coir logs, and oyster shell breakwaters to reduce wave energy and rebuild habitat.

This approach not only stabilizes shorelines but also enhances biodiversity and supports water quality. Local municipalities and community organizations are now adopting these practices, showcasing the power of community-academic collaboration.

Preserving Working Lands through Easement Stewardship in Vermont

At the University of Vermont, land conservation is getting a technology-powered upgrade. Staff supported a large land trust in improving its stewardship of 600 conservation easements across 13 counties—representing over 160,000 acres of farmland, forest, and wetlands.

By integrating drone imagery, GIS analysis, and streamlined digital monitoring tools, the team enhanced the land trust’s ability to protect environmental resources. This work embodies the Northeast Agenda’s emphasis on innovation and sustainable land use.

Rehabilitating Soil and Wetlands in West Virginia

West Virginia State University is applying phytoremediation—plant-based remediation—to improve soil and water quality in abandoned mine lands. Using switchgrass and other native plants, researchers are rehabilitating degraded areas while sequestering carbon and improving soil fertility.

The project includes a strong Extension component, with community members and students involved in environmental monitoring and planting. This inclusive model advances both ecosystem health and environmental literacy, a core Northeast Agenda priority.

Managing Water and Building Capacity in Maine

The University of Maine is ensuring that rural towns have the tools and training to manage local water resources wisely. Through one-on-one consultations, workshops, and hands-on assessments, the program helped communities create actionable plans to protect water quality and reduce pollution.

This work is particularly critical in Maine’s headwater regions, where upstream interventions safeguard downstream health. As part of a broader Northeast strategy, it showcases how Extension partnerships strengthen environmental decision-making at the local level.

Shared Vision, Regional Impact

From coasts to forests, each of these projects reflects the Northeast Agenda’s priorities: collaborative action, sustainable land and water use, and resilient communities. While the landscapes and communities differ, the shared vision is clear, environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of regional vitality.

As the Northeast faces growing environmental challenges, the region’s Land-grant institutions are stepping up with evidence-based solutions and a commitment to shared prosperity. These efforts, rooted in the Land-grant mission, show what’s possible when research, education, and extension align for the common good.

Smart Food, Stronger Communities: Innovation in Action Across the Northeast

Article by Stacey Stearns, UConn Extension

Land-grant institutions lead the charge in translating nutrition science into real-world impact for diverse communities.

In a region known for its dense population and vibrant communities, addressing food insecurity and nutrition disparities is both urgent and complex. From rural towns in New Hampshire to urban centers in Connecticut and across the agricultural communities of New York, Land-grant universities are rising to the challenge—bringing evidence-based nutrition education directly to those who need it most.

Through strategic programming and deep community partnerships, the University of Connecticut, the University of Maine, the University of New Hampshire, and Cornell University are transforming how residents’ access, understand, and embrace healthy eating. Their collective work, grounded in research and delivered through Cooperative Extension, embodies the spirit of the Northeast Agenda: a commitment to resilient food systems, regional collaboration, and community health.

University of Connecticut: Building Trust and Changing Habits

In some of Connecticut’s neighborhoods, nutrition education is helping to reshape lives. UConn Extension’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) reach more than 1,500 adults and 4,200 youth annually, many of whom live in areas experiencing persistent poverty.

These programs go beyond basic food facts. UConn Extension professionals use a behavior-focused approach that helps participants make sustainable lifestyle changes like planning nutritious meals on a budget, increasing physical activity, and managing food safety at home.

Evaluations show the impact is tangible. Eighty-one percent of adult participants reported improvements in diet quality, and more than two-thirds learned to better manage their food dollars. These results not only reflect individual gains but also signal broader community benefits—healthier families, reduced healthcare costs, and improved quality of life.

Through participant responsive education and practical skill-building, UConn’s efforts reinforce a core value of the Northeast Land-grant system: ensuring science-backed tools reach all communities, regardless of income or geography.

University of Maine: Tackling Nutrition Insecurity and Childhood Obesity

The Maine EFNEP program is making significant strides in addressing the pressing issues of childhood obesity and nutrition insecurity among youth. Recognizing the alarming rates of food insecurity and obesity, EFNEP provides essential education on healthy eating habits, physical activity, and effective food management practices. In 2024, the program nearly doubled its reach, engaging 3,140 youth in a series of educational lessons designed to foster long-term health improvements. The impact of these lessons is substantial: 79% of participants enhanced their ability to choose foods according to current Dietary Guidelines, 43% increased their daily physical activity, 50% adopted safer food handling practices, and 34% improved their skills in preparing simple, nutritious meals. These efforts are crucial in combating the high rates of food insecurity and obesity, which continue to strain health promotion programs and elevate healthcare costs. By empowering youth with the knowledge and skills needed for self-sufficiency and nutritional health, EFNEP is fostering a healthier future for Maine’s children, ensuring they develop lifelong habits that contribute to their overall well-being.

University of New Hampshire: Empowering Parents to Lead Healthier Lives

Across state lines in New Hampshire, the University of New Hampshire Extension is taking a generational approach to nutrition. By working directly with parents and caregivers, UNH is helping families make lasting changes that benefit children and adults alike.

Using a hands-on, interactive EFNEP curriculum, educators guide participants through lessons on meal planning, shopping strategies, and nutrition label literacy. The goal is to equip caregivers with the knowledge and confidence to lead their households toward healthier living.

Participants not only improve their dietary habits but also learn how to engage their children in healthier food choices, creating ripple effects that strengthen long-term wellness. This aligns closely with the Northeast Agenda’s focus on family-centered community health and inclusive educational practices.

UNH’s work shows that effective nutrition programming isn’t just about food, it’s about trust, relationship-building, and recognizing the lived experiences of the people served. By embedding education in community settings, the university strengthens both individual and regional resilience.

Cornell University: Systemic Impact Through Nutrition Policy and Training

While local programs drive immediate change, Cornell University is creating long-term impact through leadership in EFNEP curriculum design, policy engagement, and workforce training. As a statewide hub for nutrition education, Cornell supports a network of Extension professionals who serve thousands of families across New York.

In 2022 alone, Cornell’s EFNEP programming reached more than 11,000 adults and youth. Behind the scenes, faculty and staff developed standardized training systems and evaluation frameworks that ensure program consistency and quality from Buffalo to the Bronx.

This approach exemplifies Land-grant innovation: scaling up best practices to reach many populations while maintaining a personal, local connection. Cornell’s commitment to shared evaluation and capacity-building also supports the Northeast Agenda’s emphasis on inter-institutional collaboration and science-driven solutions.

Through strategic leadership, Cornell ensures that nutrition education remains both adaptable and evidence-based, helping families make informed choices in a constantly shifting food landscape.

Looking Ahead: Nutrition as a Pathway to Regional Resilience

Together, these universities illustrate how Land-grant institutions can move the needle on food insecurity, through direct service, innovation, partnership, and policy-informed practice.

Their efforts speak directly to the priorities outlined in the Northeast Agenda, particularly the vision of promoting equitable food systems and fostering community well-being. As funding landscapes shift and public health challenges evolve, these programs remain essential pillars of support in their communities.

By advancing nutrition education rooted in local needs and scientific rigor, UConn, UNH, and Cornell are not only feeding bodies, they’re also nourishing futures.

Michele Kroll (University of New Hampshire) wins 2024 Northeast Exceptional Local Educator Award

The Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) has awarded University of New Hampshire Extension Field Specialist Michele Kroll the 2024 Exceptional Local Educator Award for her program Promoting Health and Well-being of Older Adults in New Hampshire.

Read more “Michele Kroll (University of New Hampshire) wins 2024 Northeast Exceptional Local Educator Award”

Northeast Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network extends critical resources to individuals, families, communities

Cultivemos, the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) in the Northeast Region, is comprised of a network of organizations and individuals uses a cohort model of network-building. Small cohorts of members work together
to share and create new resources in their areas of interest and expertise. Cohorts include Farm Worker, Mental Health, Veterans, Legal, PFAS, Farm Communication and Cooperative Extension. The USDA FARSAN grantee is the National Young Farmers Coalition.

“Northeast Agenda” is a call to action for Extension and Agricultural Experiment Stations

Northeast Agenda (Full Version)

Northeast Agenda (Executive Summary)

The Northeast Agenda is a collaboration between the Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) and the Northeastern Regional Association of State Agricultural Experiment Station Directors (NERA). It identifies challenges and opportunities for the Northeast region’s Land-grant programs as they work together to ensure a regenerative, livable, and vibrant Northeast United States.

We invite you explore the Agenda (linked above) and to engage with us. The Northeast Agenda committee seeks participation, collaboration, and investment. Please contact us if you have questions or want to join in this work.

The Northeast Agenda is a living, evolving document identifying numerous challenges affecting our region and work. We hope it galvanizes our regional institutions, colleagues, and communities to create a prospectus of collaboration and investment opportunities.

Northeast Region has approximately 25 million acres of agricultural land (167,000 farms). From a national perspective, the Northeast accounts for approximately 4.3 percent of total U.S. crop cash receipts and 6.3 percent of total U.S. animal and animal product cash receipts. That translates to a contribution of more than $19 billion to the U.S. agricultural economy. Although the average farm size is only 133 acres (compared to the US average of 445 acres); the productivity of those farms is high. Northeast farms generate about 2.5 times as much income per acre than farms elsewhere in the United States. NE farmers use their resources efficiently.

The Northeast Agenda gives special attention to:

  • Innovative agriculture.
    • Urban agriculture and organic agriculture).
    • Specialty crops.
    • Agricultural technologies.
    • Controlled-environment agriculture.
    • Aquaculture.
  • Conventional production agriculture.
  • Cultivating the next generation of our agricultural workforce.

Climate-related stresses influence changes in inter- and intra-state demographics, the extent of urban sprawl, what can be successfully grown when and where, and the spread of pests. These food-system stressors are compounded by labor shortages, land costs, and numerous other business-related hurdles. These conditions call for developing and implementing new climate-smart technologies and/or repurposing existing technologies to new uses for climate-adaptive and climate- resilient farming.

NEED and NERA envision a Northeast that is looked to as the leading example of how climate adaptation and mitigation can be simultaneously and effectively achieved.

The Northeast Agenda gives special attention to:

  • Climate and extreme weather.
  • Water quantity and quality.
  • Coastal resilience.
  • Invasive pest migration and expansion.

The Northeast region is the most densely and diversely populated region in the United States and has the largest number of small and medium-sized farms. Those farms represent a broad, highly differentiated portfolio of crop and livestock activities and abundant assorted forestry activities areas that together provide both economic and recreational opportunities.

Extension and agricultural research must understand and respond to this high degree of diversity to help producers and communities strategically, responsibly, and resiliently align food and natural resource production systems. We also must work to ensure equitable access to these resources across all socioeconomic, demographic, and geographic aspects of the Northeast’s population.

Developing and delivering science-based solutions that meet the challenge will enable people in all Northeast communities to improve their health and well-being while securing environmental sustainability for future generations.

The Northeast Agenda gives special attention to:

  • Community Health/One Health.
  • Nutrition and physical activity.
  • Sustainable agriculture.
  • Biodiversity.
  • Food safety.
  • Recreation and tourism.

NEED supports three urban Extension projects; enhancing collaboration for communications, 4-H youth, and fighting food waste

The Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) has awarded funding to three new interstate collaborative projects that support, advance, or promote Extension initiatives that directly target or build capacity for programs that reach urban audiences. Learn about the exciting projects below.

Any questions about these projects, or the other incredible work Extension is undertaking across the region, can be directed to NEED’s Executive Director Ali Mitchell at [email protected].

Northeast Extension Land Grant Brand Regional Voice (Urban)

Participating Land-grant Universities: Penn State University; Rutgers University; University of Massachusetts Amherst; University of Connecticut; West Virginia State University; Cornell University.

Extension has long been called the “best kept secret,” which reflects the limited visibility,
understanding, and recognition of resources available to residents. This project’s purpose is to create a campaign to enhance Extension’s visibility with an urban focus that is easily identifiable and translatable. We will create a communications toolkit that includes a set of guidelines for all users to follow, ensuring cohesive messaging. It will include suggested messages and stock images about Urban Extension programs available incorporating all departments.

The communications campaign will increase awareness and cohesiveness of messaging between
Extension offices and the target audience. With clear, eye-catching appeal, the marketing efforts will link
the Northeastern states together while allowing the user to connect with their local Extension programs.”

Multi-State Food Recovery Mini Summit: Learning, Sharing, Planning

Participating Land-grant Universities: University of Rhode Island; Rutgers University

This project focuses on fighting food loss and waste in the region. The Summit will allow the participating institutions (Rutgers, University of Rhode Island, possibly others) to share ideas, experience examples of successes in action, jointly develop pilot implementation plans for program replication/modification, plan for larger multi-state AFRI grant submission in 2024.

Northeast States Urban 4-H Teen Council (NESU 4-H TC)

Participating Land-grant Universities: University of Connecticut, University of Connecticut; University of the District of Columbia; University of Massachusetts Amherst; Rutgers; Cornell; West Virginia State University

This project will empower the first ever 4-H Teen Council by and for northeast youth from urban and/or underserved populations. This collaborative effort aims to empower the Teen Council members to make a positive impact in their communities and inspire others to get involved in the 4-H program.

Congratulations Jiff Martin, winner of the 2023 Northeast ECOP Excellence in Extension Award

The Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) is proud to share that Jiff Martin, Sustainable Food Systems Extension Educator at the University of Connecticut (bio), has been awarded the 2023 Northeast Region Excellence in Extension Award by the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy.

Read more “Congratulations Jiff Martin, winner of the 2023 Northeast ECOP Excellence in Extension Award”

4-H Volunteers – Critical to the success of Northeast positive youth development programs

Members of the Northeast Region Volunteerism Group (NERV) conducted a research study this to assess the impact of 4-H youth development volunteer effort in the Northeast Region (as defined by Cooperative Extension). States that participated in this study include Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine.

The specific goals of this research included:

  • (To obtain data on 4-H volunteer impact on the following audiences:
    • 4-H youth participants
    • the community in which the volunteer serves
    • the organization for which the volunteer serves (local, extension and university)
    • the volunteer (individual)
  • (2) To obtain volunteer service information.

The overall purpose was to demonstrate the service and impact of adult volunteers on the 4-H program and inform stakeholders of said impact through reports, infographics and other materials that may be used to educate, recruit new volunteers or access financial support. (See survey flyer)

NEED is excited to share the results of the survey, produced by the NERV team!

Questions about NERV or the results of this survey may be directed to Allison Smith (University of Vermont) at [email protected].

UMaine, UVM earn $6.5M USDA grant for Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture Across America (YEA) program

The University of Maine (UMaine) Extension will work with the University of Vermont (UVM) Extension to “increase the number of youth studying food and agriculture, increase the capacity of communities to promote food and agriculture, and increase the capacity of the Cooperative Extension System, through the 4-H youth development program, to better connect with youth and parents from immigrant, refugee and asylum-seeking communities.” The two states will work together to host a teen youth council that will help guide the work. UVM intends to work with AALV, an organization that helps new Americans in Vermont gain independence in new communities while also supporting Vermont’s migrant farmworker population.

Funding for this work is provided from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Learn about the USDA NIFA funding and other awarded programs at https://www.nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/press-releases/usda-nifa-invests-positive-youth-development.

Read a full press story on the work here: https://www.morningagclips.com/umaine-extension-earns-6-5m-for-new-4-h-workforce-development-program/

Excerpted from the story:

The new program, called “Oh Yea! 4-H Grows True Leaders,” will provide experiential learning, practical knowledge and life skill development to hundreds of young Mainers over the next five years. The funding will increase involvement from traditionally underrepresented communities in the Maine food system. UMaine Extension 4-H will partner with community organizations such as Mano en Manoin Milbridge and the Somali Bantu Community Association in Lewiston.

The Maine True Leaders program is an innovative approach to nurturing future advocates of food production and healthy living in Maine. It focuses on migrant, immigrant and refugee families, promoting evidence-based indicators important for families learning to navigate a new country. The program’s key indicators include openness to challenge and discovery, hopeful purpose, positive emotions, resource maximization and cultural membership. The goal of the program is to prepare youth from underrepresented communities for careers in the Maine food system and help them understand the role of food in their daily lives. 

“This project is a meaningful example of Extension’s ongoing work to meet the state’s ever-changing needs,” said Hannah Carter, associate provost of online and continuing education and dean of UMaine Extension. “An important factor in solving our ongoing workforce challenges is to embrace and support the growing number of people who want to build a life here. At Extension, one way we can do that is through the lens of Maine’s food system, which plays an important role in a strong economy and thriving population.”

University of Maine Extension’s Kathy Savoie wins the 2023 NEED Exceptional Local Educator Award

Professor Kathleen (Kathy) Savoie has been awarded the Association of Northeast Extension Directors’ 2023 Exceptional Local Educator Award for her work “Building Agricultural Literacy through an Immersive Culinary Art Experience”.

Read more “University of Maine Extension’s Kathy Savoie wins the 2023 NEED Exceptional Local Educator Award”

2023 Multistate Urban Extension Award program is LIVE! Proposals due August 15, 2023

NEED is excited to announce available funding for exceptional multistate urban Extension projects. Proposals are due to NEED Executive Director, Ali Mitchell, over email as a single PDF by 5pm ET on August 15, 2023. EMAIL: [email protected]

Overview

The Association of Northeastern Extension Directors (NEED) announces an opportunity to obtain funds for interstate collaborations that support, advance or promote Extension initiatives that directly target or build capacity for programs that reach urban audiences. Proposals must involve participation by Extension personnel from a minimum of two states in the Northeast Region.

A range of activities can be supported including, but not limited to:

  • Training and Demonstration – Sharing successful approaches or models that will allow states to adopt, modify or expand extension programs for urban audiences.
  • Professional Development – Enhancing the capacity of staff to deliver programs to urban audiences.
  • Program Development – Creating/piloting new programs to reach urban audiences.
  • Communication and Connection – Enhancing communication, technology, or urban Extension networks.

Examples of allowable expenses include:

  • Travel and meeting costs.
  • Materials and supplies.
  • Contracts for service with external facilitators, consultants, or experts.

Note: All expenditures must be consistent with policies of the institution of the proposed leader and team members.

How much support is offered?

Applicants may apply for a maximum of $4,000 to be spent within one year of approval of the proposal.     

Required Contents of Submission

All proposals must be submitted as a single PDF and include the following:

  • Name/title of proposed initiative
  • Name, title, and contact information of proposal leader
  • List of additional team members (including name, title, and home institution)
  • Narrative (maximum of 4,000 characters, including spaces) that addresses:
    • Purpose of proposed activities.
    • Methods – how proposed activities will be designed, conducted, implemented, and delivered.
    • Goals – what will happen as a result of the proposed activities.
  • Budget with a timetable and a description for all expenditures.

Proposal Submission

Proposals must be submitted to Ali Mitchell, NEED Executive Director, at [email protected] no later than 5pm ET August 15, 2023. Proposals may be submitted by any group/team of northeast extension employees with endorsement from their Extension Directors.

Proposal Review and Criteria for Funding

A first round of proposal review will be conducted by a select committee of the NEED Chair, NEED Executive Director, and Northeast NUEL Network Chair. The Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) will then conduct a final evaluation and award funds based on the potential proposed projects have to effectively support, advance, promote or build capacity for Extension programs that reach urban audiences. Proposals that meet the following criteria will be prioritized:

  • Proposed goals and activities are clear and of high quality.
  • There is a commitment of additional funds or in-kind resources from Extension directors and/or administrators of participating states or external partners.
  • Team members have significant experience, expertise, or a record of achievement in the areas related to the proposed activities.
  • The proposal includes a plan that demonstrates, documents, or promotes ways the project will increase the impact of Extension programs delivered to urban audiences.

Reporting

Within one year of receiving the award, recipients will submit a brief report (based on a template that will be provided) on how the funds were spent and on the degree of success in achieving identified goals. Recipients may be asked to present or share results through other venues as appropriate.

Questions?

Contact: William Miller, NEED Chair

Email: [email protected]

NEED hosts successful Northeast Extension DEIJ Workshop

In June 2022, the Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) set advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in Extension as its year-long regional priority. NEED’s goal was to ultimately increase Northeast Extension expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion; build regional capacity; provide individual professional development; cultivate culturally competent leaders; and improve community-based programs.

Read more “NEED hosts successful Northeast Extension DEIJ Workshop”

NEED develops joint 2023 Farm Bill priorities with Northeast Secretaries of Agriculture

The Association of Northeast Extension Directors (NEED) worked with the Northeast Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NEASDA), a subsection of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), to develop the following recommendations and considerations for the 2023 Farm Bill. These were created with the hope that the 2023 Farm Bill will strengthen the federal government’s commitment to food system viability and climate resilience, agricultural workforce development, and market access across farm size.

Read more “NEED develops joint 2023 Farm Bill priorities with Northeast Secretaries of Agriculture”