Cornell Cooperative Extension Jefferson County

Neighbors You Know, Knowledge You Trust

picture of front of cce jefferson building

 

 

At CCE Jefferson County, we connect local communities with the research and resources of Cornell University while fostering opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation. From free or low-cost workshops on topics ranging from organic gardening and canning to parenting and youth development, to events and online resources, there’s something for everyone! Browse our website or give us a call to learn more.

 

dairy cows in field
Agriculture & Natural Resources

CCE Jefferson County supports farmers at every level—from new producers to established operations seeking advanced expertise. Our educators connect farms and agribusinesses with the latest research, innovations, and technologies from Cornell University and other leading institutions.

4-H youth next to dog holding ribbons won at fair
4-H Youth Programs

In Jefferson County, CCE works in schools, communities, and on Fort Drum to connect youth and families with trusted adults, proven programs, and Cornell University resources, opening doors and contributing to lifelong success.

Woman purchasing produce at farmers market
Jefferson County Food Connections

Through efforts like Grow Local, Buy Local, Taste NY, farmers markets, and institutional partnerships, we foster stronger connections between producers and consumers while building a more resilient, sustainable food system.

Upcoming Events

Lecture

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Beekeeper Forum
Join us for free lectures from local beekeepers as we discuss seasonal responsibilities and have other various discussions on beekeeping in the North Country. Local beekeeper Ron Lauff will be holding the discussion, as well as other local guest...
  • Community Education

Class

Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Course
Fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety are...
  • Agriculture

Class

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Growing a Home-Based Food Business
This course is one of the seven themes available as part of the Ag and Food Producers Academy offering scheduled for January to March 2026. Find the other six on the events page or at the page for the entire initiative here . The registration...
  • Agriculture
  • Local Foods

Field Day

3rd Annual Wabasso Egg-Stravaganza
Join us for our 3rd annual Wabasso Egg-Stravaganza! Enjoy Spring themed crafts, games, a campfire with s’mores, and camp-wide egg hunts which will take place at 1:15, 2:15, & 3:15 PM Stay for all or part of this family friendly event. Fee: $7...
  • 4-H Youth

Field Day

Dairy Farm Tour
Meet three farms that transitioned from Tiestall to a Freestall with a new milking system! Fee: Tour is free, optional bagged lunch $15.00 Registration: Call 315-376-5270 or follow the registration link below Register by March 30th Details...
  • Agriculture

Class

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Beginner Beekeeper Course
Join us to learn how to become a beekeeper or refresh your knowledge and skills! This in-depth, 8-part course will cover the basics of apiary management and address the challenges of raising honeybees in the North Country. Covered topics will...
  • Community Education
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What's New at CCE Jefferson

4-H Camp Wabasso Registration is Open!

Scholarship Deadline is March 31

4-H Camp Wabasso offers hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for campers to grow, make friends, and create lifelong memories. We offer a limited amount of scholarships. Applications are due March 31. To be considered, start the enrollment process and complete the scholarship section during registration! 

New Grant Available!

Farmers Market Resiliency Grant

This new grant is helping strengthen farmers markets across Jefferson County. Through education, regulatory guidance, and vendor support, CCE Jefferson is working to build a more resilient and sustainable local food system. This is available to new and existing vendors. Explore our Food Systems page for more details.                                  

Our 1st Annual Acution

SAVE THE DATE!

Mark your calendars! CCE Jefferson is planning its first annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 2–4 PM at 4-H Camp Wabasso in Redwood, NY.

All proceeds from this year’s event will benefit 4-H Camp Wabasso.

The fundraiser will feature both an online silent auction and an in-person auction with an outdoor adventure theme. The online auction will open October 1, with the in-person portion taking place during the event on October 17.

Auction items will include a variety of goods and experiences inspired by the great outdoors and the best of what the North Country has to offer.

Stay tuned for more details, including online auction information!

youth with kayaks by the water
vendor booth at market
save the date info

Check Out Our Latest Article in the Watertown Daily Times

Spotted lanternfly invasive pest on wood

Master Gardener Volunteer Column

Spotted Lanternfly
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has confirmed that the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect native to Asia, has been found in multiple counties in New York, including Onondaga County, several counties in Western New...
  • Gardening & Horticulture
Codling Moth photo by Steve Schoof, NC State

Master Gardener Volunteer Column

Codling Moths in Home Orchards
The codling moth is a pest introduced from Eurasia. The larvae feed on the fruit of a wide range of host plants, including apple, pear, quince, hawthorne, crabapple, and walnut. It's a major fruit-feeding pest in fruit growing regions of the...
  • Gardening & Horticulture
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Our mission:

Since 1918, CCE Jefferson County has provided trusted, research-based knowledge to help individuals, families, and businesses succeed while supporting economic vitality, agricultural sustainability, and social well-being throughout our region.

Rooted in Jefferson County, New York, and backed by the statewide Cornell Cooperative Extension system, we create impactful programs and provide valuable tools tailored to the needs of our community. By combining local expertise with research from Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and College of Human Ecology, we empower residents to address challenges and build stronger futures.

Map of New York State with Jefferson County highlighted.
Location

203 N Hamilton Street
Watertown, NY 13601

Contact

Phone: 315-788-8450
Fax: 315-788-8461
Email: jefferson@cornell.edu

Hours

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Please note: office closures follow the federal holiday calendar

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