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

Field Day

Manure Roadshow - Grassland Manure Injection Field Day
Manure Roadshow - Grassland Manure Injection Field Day at Mapleview Dairy. Come learn about in-season manure application, grassland injection, and rain 360 corn.
  • Agriculture
Themed Gardens

Webinar

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Themed Gardens
Join us on a fun webinar series about different types of garden themes! Here are the topics that'll be discussed: September 14th-Fairy September 21st-Fragrant September 28th-Deer Resistant
  • Agriculture and Food Systems

Workshop

Funding Your Farm
Whether you are looking to expand your operation, purchase new technology, or start a new enterprise; grants can help turn these goals into a reality! Join us via Zoom to explore how to identify grant opportunities and learn tips to write an...
  • Agriculture and Food Systems
Preserving Your Harvest

Class

Preserving Your Harvest
Calling all homesteaders, producers, and gardeners! Join us to explore the benefits and processes of food preservation utilized to preserve harvests of any size! At the end of class, we will put our knowledge to the test making and water bath...
  • Agriculture and Food Systems
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What's New at CCE Jefferson

Register Now!

4-H Camp Wabasso Registration is Open!

4-H Camp Wabasso, Jefferson County's only youth residential camp, offers hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for campers to grow, make friends, and create lifelong memories. Open to youth ages 6-16!

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 an in-person auction with an outdoor adventure theme.

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!

Forage Systems Survey

Help Cornell PRO-DAIRY forage systems prioritize their programming efforts! Answer a few questions on the importance of topics including:

  • Field Crop Performance Network
  • New York and Vermont Corn Silage Hybrid Evaluation Program
  • Collaboration on handheld units to improve corn silage harvest
  • PRO-DAIRY online courses
  • Field crop/agricultural land use and land development pressures
  • silage storage management and reduction of shrink losses
youth with kayaks by the water
save the date info

Check Out Our Latest Article in the Watertown Daily Times

Dear Aggie Column

The difference between grass-fed, pasture-raised, and grain-finished meat.

There is a vast number of different products in the aisles of a grocery store. A great opportunity considering every consumer has certain preferences and there is room for such variety that at least one thing appeals to everyone. I personally...

  • Agriculture
Primary vs. Secondary Stemphylium Leaf Blight Target Spot Lesions

Stemphylium leaf blight (SLB) is a foliar disease of onion that causes tan, black or purple-colored target spots and leaf dieback. When uncontrolled, it results in excessive leaf dieback which causes reduced bulb size/yield and bulb quality. SLB...

  • Agriculture
  • Vegetables
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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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