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

Fall foilage class at CCE Jefferson

Class

Fall Foliage and Flora
Join us at CCE Jefferson to explore utilizing all the fall season has to offer! Sarah Glazer, producer and owner of The Flora Locale will share tips on using seasonal, available foliage and flowers in floral design, easy propagation tips, and...
  • Agriculture and Food Systems

Class

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Shooting Sports Club - Advanced Air Rifle and Air Pistol
Teaching marksmanship skills educates youth in safe and responsible firearms handling and ownership. It also teaches self-control and discipline, emotional control, responsibility, goalsetting, leadership, fair play, and the rewards of hard work...
2026 Camp Spooktacular

Field Day

2026 Camp Spooktacular
Join us for our fourth annual Camp Spooktacular! Fun for the whole family! Saturday October 10, 2026 Come anytime between 1-4 PM Stay for all or part of the event! Tickets are $10 per child over the age of 3 with pre-registration by October 8...
  • Youth and Families/4H

Workshop

Tricks, Treats, and Healthy Eats
Join us for a fun, family-friendly Halloween event filled with practical life skills, creativity, and a little spooky fun! Families will learn important Halloween safety tips, explore creative and healthy alternatives for leftover Halloween...
  • Youth and Families/4H

Workshop

Leading with HOPE and Connection
This free workshop, hosted by NYSPEP, in partnership with Hamilton CSD, brings together previews of the collaborative power of the Community Café facilitation method with the tools developed in TUFT University's HOPE framework to bring parenting...
  • Youth and Families/4H

Workshop

From Users to Thinkers: Raising AI-Literate Kids - Ithaca
With Presenters: Amanda Purington Drake, PhD Amanda Purington Drake, PhD, is the Principal Investigator of Cornell University’s ACT for Youth, leading the Center for Community Action and the New York State Center of Excellence for Children and...
  • Youth and Families/4H
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What's New at CCE Jefferson

Back to School Recipes

Starting the school day with a satisfying breakfast can help children stay focused, energized and ready to learn. What they eat matters, too. Foods that provide protein, whole grains, fruits and other nutrients can help provide steady energy throughout the morning.

Busy schedules don’t have to mean complicated meals. Make-ahead breakfasts like overnight oats and easy slow-cooker dinners can save time while giving families plenty of options for nutritious, budget-friendly meals.

Check out a few easy recipes here!

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.

Learn more!

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
save the date info

Check Out Our Latest Article in the Watertown Daily Times

News

The North Country Clean Energy Hub Transforming Homes of the North Country

Since 2022, the North Country Clean Energy Hub has been diligently working to make homes in the North Country more comfortable, safe and energy efficient for the residents who call it home. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County works...

  • Energy

Dear Aggie Column

Self-sufficiency - where do I start?

Producing food to nourish your family can be one of the most rewarding practices. Though self-sufficiency looks and means different things for every person. Are you looking to grow enough vegetables and fruit to supplement through the harvest...

Explore All News & Stories

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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