Cornell Cooperative Extension Broome County

Agriculture and horticulture cover more than a third of Broome County's land, with farm businesses in every town. As the industry shifts from traditional dairy toward vegetables, fruit, meat, poultry, fiber, timber, maple, and other specialty products, CCE Broome works alongside producers through that change. We provide technical assistance backed by Cornell research, support agricultural economic development, help beginning farmers get established, and connect veterans with pathways into farming through our Veterans Resiliency Project.

4-H is the nation's largest youth development program, open to anyone ages 5 to 18. Through hands-on learning backed by Cornell research, young people build skills in civic engagement, healthy living, and science and technology - while gaining the confidence, compassion, and connections with caring adults that set them up for life. In Broome County, 4-H reaches youth through clubs, schools, and community programs across every corner of the county. Whether a young person is interested in animals, robotics, cooking, gardening, or public speaking, there's a place for them here.

CCE Broome County helps young people build skills, confidence, and connections that last. Through school partnerships, and afterschool and summer programs, we reach youth from elementary school through their teens with hands-on learning in leadership, civic engagement, healthy living, and STEAM - preparing them for college, careers, and community life.

CCE Broome County offers free nutrition education throughout the county - for youth, adults, families, school districts, and community partners. Through EFNEP, SNAP-Ed, the Healthy Lifestyle Coalition, and Farm to School, we help people build cooking and food budgeting skills, eat more fruits and vegetables, get more physical activity, and stretch their food dollars.

A strong local food system keeps farm dollars in the community and puts fresh food within reach. CCE Broome County connects producers with customers through the Broome County Regional Farmers Market, Grown in Broome, Taste NY, and our agritourism programs - and helps food entrepreneurs get their start in our incubator kitchen. Direct sales of local products generate $30.7 million annually, translating into roughly $100 million in community impact and 900 jobs.

CCE Broome County Environment Educators offer free educational programing on nature-based topics, composting and recycling, gardening, and home energy efficiency. Programs are held throughout Broome County in public schools, county parks, along with our partner organizations as host sites, and right here at our Upper Front Street campus.

CCE Broome's Gardening programs help residents solve horticulture problems and connect with nature, centered around Cutler Botanic Garden - a 5-acre living classroom staffed by trained Master Gardener Volunteers who answer questions, lead workshops, and care for the garden itself.

CCE Broome helps residents build the skills and confidence needed for lasting career success. Through programs like CareerBound, young adults ages 18–24 gain workplace training, industry certifications, and paid work experience - along with support to earn a GED or pursue further education - on the path toward meaningful employment.