Holiday Office Closure Friday, July 4, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= Orange County 4-H Owl Meet & Greet 2025 Saturday, July 5, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Whooooo wants to learn about live owls?On Saturday, July 5th from 1 to 3 p.m., join us for another day with Dr. Laura and some of her feathered friends! After graduating veterinary school in 2013, Dr. Laura moved to New York to practice small animal veterinary medicine. Her volunteer work for wildlife rehabilitation centers led to a special interest in birds of prey, and she became a falconer in 2017 and a federal wildlife rehabilitator in 2022. Dr. Laura collaborates with other falconers and rehabilitators alike to make the world a better place for raptors. In her spare time, she works to educate the public about birds of prey, and ultimately wildlife conservation. FREE Kathy Leo, kal64@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.259 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-6157573 ========================================= 4-H Tie-Dye 2025 Monday, July 7, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Are you ready to unleash your creativity and explore the vibrant realm of tie-dye?Join us for an unforgettable experience where art meets science in the most colorful way possible! Reserve your spot now as spaces are limited! This program is for YOUTH AGES 5-18 MUST BRING YOUR OWN WHITE T-SHIRT. FREE Kathy Leo, kal64@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.259 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/Sys/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fevent-6182992 ========================================= Master Food Preserver Training 2025 Tuesday, July 8, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm, 21 Finchville Tpke , Middletown, New York 10940 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County is hosting a three-day Master Food Preserver Certification Training on July 8 to July 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm in Middletown, NY. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend, but must be available to attend the entire training, be willing to share knowledge with others, and be comfortable participating in a variety of hands-on activities.During this intensive training, participants will learn about safe and efficient methods for all aspects of food preservation in the home including economic and nutritional considerations, food safety, canning, freezing, drying, pickling, fermentation, and preparing jams and jellies.This is a valuable asset to owners and employees of farm stands and Community Supported Agriculture as well as members of civic organizations, as you can pass your knowledge along with confidence. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend but must be available to participate in the entire 3-day, hands-on training. Upon completion of the training, attendees will be certified as "Master Food Preservers" through Cornell Cooperative Extension. This title, "Master Food Preservers", deems participants as trainers, with the expectation that they are actively involved in the program.The Master Food Preservers Program is a Cornell Cooperative Extension cohort made up of Extension professionals and Orange County volunteers dedicated to sharing the knowledge and skills of general food preservation with the local community. This program is led by a cohort of volunteers who have initially undergone the Master Food Preservers "Train the Trainer" training to be properly informed on safe and efficient methods of food preservation. Trained community members, or "Master Food Preservers" are responsible for leading and supporting programmatic workshops, facilitation and education, attending community events, providing general education on all/any aspects of preservation, etc.The Master Food Preserver Training is limited to 15 participants and includes lunch each day. The cost ranges between $365- $400 and will be specified below depending on individual credentials. Because space for the training is limited, applicants will undergo a selection process to best ensure their potential participation is suitable for the program. Upon acceptance, further details regarding payment will be available. $365-$400 Olivia O'Connor, oco8@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, ext.246 ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Newburgh Armory Unity Center Community Garden Tuesday, July 8, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 Join us on the second Tuesday of the month out at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) Community Garden for a quick gardening lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  The youth program is reccomended for youth ages 5-10.Unless otherwise noted, sessions will take place in the garden which is located around the back of the NAUC. If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the NAUC. Please enter through the back entrance. The class will be held in the room found on your right immediately upon entering the building.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Lisa Rittweger at lrittweger@newburgharmory.org or call her at (845) 978-8845.Members of the Newburgh Armory Community Garden should contact Lisa Rittweger for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsTown of Monroe Community Garden Date Topic Description Tuesday, April 8 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. This lesson will be taught indoors, please enter through the back entrance. Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 10 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 8 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 12 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 9 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGNEWBURGH ========================================= Orange County 4-H Dairy Explorers 2025 Tuesday, July 8, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Did you know? Milk and dairy products are New York state’s top agricultural commodity!Do you want to learn more about where milk comes from and see the cows that make it, right here in our county?Orange County 4-H is hosting a 5-week Dairy Explorer’s programs at local farms. Age range is 8-18!The first 2 sessions will meet at Stap Dairy in Pine Bush on Tuesdays June 24th and July 1st from 6:30-8:30 pm. The next 3 sessions will meet at Spruce Gate Holsteins in Walden on Tuesdays July 8, 15, and 22 from 6:30-8:30 pm. The final session for both programs will be held at The Country Fair in Otisville on Saturday, July 26th.Youth will be able to:Experience how a dairy farm operatesLearn about how they take care of cowsDo fun crafts & activitiesHave the opportunity to groom & show a calf at The Country Fair!The cost is $25/youth. Space is limited! Registration required by June 17th. Contact Zoe Lockburner at zrl7@cornell.edu with questions. $25 per participant Zoe Nafis, zrl7@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 258 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-6133625 ========================================= Master Food Preserver Training 2025 Wednesday, July 9, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm, 21 Finchville Tpke , Middletown, New York 10940 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County is hosting a three-day Master Food Preserver Certification Training on July 8 to July 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm in Middletown, NY. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend, but must be available to attend the entire training, be willing to share knowledge with others, and be comfortable participating in a variety of hands-on activities.During this intensive training, participants will learn about safe and efficient methods for all aspects of food preservation in the home including economic and nutritional considerations, food safety, canning, freezing, drying, pickling, fermentation, and preparing jams and jellies.This is a valuable asset to owners and employees of farm stands and Community Supported Agriculture as well as members of civic organizations, as you can pass your knowledge along with confidence. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend but must be available to participate in the entire 3-day, hands-on training. Upon completion of the training, attendees will be certified as "Master Food Preservers" through Cornell Cooperative Extension. This title, "Master Food Preservers", deems participants as trainers, with the expectation that they are actively involved in the program.The Master Food Preservers Program is a Cornell Cooperative Extension cohort made up of Extension professionals and Orange County volunteers dedicated to sharing the knowledge and skills of general food preservation with the local community. This program is led by a cohort of volunteers who have initially undergone the Master Food Preservers "Train the Trainer" training to be properly informed on safe and efficient methods of food preservation. Trained community members, or "Master Food Preservers" are responsible for leading and supporting programmatic workshops, facilitation and education, attending community events, providing general education on all/any aspects of preservation, etc.The Master Food Preserver Training is limited to 15 participants and includes lunch each day. The cost ranges between $365- $400 and will be specified below depending on individual credentials. Because space for the training is limited, applicants will undergo a selection process to best ensure their potential participation is suitable for the program. Upon acceptance, further details regarding payment will be available. $365-$400 Olivia O'Connor, oco8@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, ext.246 ========================================= Master Food Preserver Training 2025 Thursday, July 10, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm, 21 Finchville Tpke , Middletown, New York 10940 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County is hosting a three-day Master Food Preserver Certification Training on July 8 to July 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lotuswood Organic Wellness Farm in Middletown, NY. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend, but must be available to attend the entire training, be willing to share knowledge with others, and be comfortable participating in a variety of hands-on activities.During this intensive training, participants will learn about safe and efficient methods for all aspects of food preservation in the home including economic and nutritional considerations, food safety, canning, freezing, drying, pickling, fermentation, and preparing jams and jellies.This is a valuable asset to owners and employees of farm stands and Community Supported Agriculture as well as members of civic organizations, as you can pass your knowledge along with confidence. Participants need no prior knowledge of food preservation to attend but must be available to participate in the entire 3-day, hands-on training. Upon completion of the training, attendees will be certified as "Master Food Preservers" through Cornell Cooperative Extension. This title, "Master Food Preservers", deems participants as trainers, with the expectation that they are actively involved in the program.The Master Food Preservers Program is a Cornell Cooperative Extension cohort made up of Extension professionals and Orange County volunteers dedicated to sharing the knowledge and skills of general food preservation with the local community. This program is led by a cohort of volunteers who have initially undergone the Master Food Preservers "Train the Trainer" training to be properly informed on safe and efficient methods of food preservation. Trained community members, or "Master Food Preservers" are responsible for leading and supporting programmatic workshops, facilitation and education, attending community events, providing general education on all/any aspects of preservation, etc.The Master Food Preserver Training is limited to 15 participants and includes lunch each day. The cost ranges between $365- $400 and will be specified below depending on individual credentials. Because space for the training is limited, applicants will undergo a selection process to best ensure their potential participation is suitable for the program. Upon acceptance, further details regarding payment will be available. $365-$400 Olivia O'Connor, oco8@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, ext.246 ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Middletown Community Garden Tuesday, July 15, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore Heights, David Moore Place (off of Genung Street) , Middletown, NY 10940 Join us on the third Tuesday of the month at the Middletown Community Garden at David Moore Heights for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  Youth program reccomended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office located at 18 Seward Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940.All registrants will be notified of the location change.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Susan Ndiaye at sgn32@cornell.edu or call her at (845) 344-1234 (ext. 250).Members of the Middletown Community Garden should contact Susan Ndiaye for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Newburgh Armory Community GardenTown of Monroe Community GardenDate Topic Description Tuesday, April 15 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Tuesday, May 20 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 17 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 15 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 19 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 16 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.250 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGMIDDLETOWN ========================================= Orange County 4-H Dairy Explorers 2025 Tuesday, July 15, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Did you know? Milk and dairy products are New York state’s top agricultural commodity!Do you want to learn more about where milk comes from and see the cows that make it, right here in our county?Orange County 4-H is hosting a 5-week Dairy Explorer’s programs at local farms. Age range is 8-18!The first 2 sessions will meet at Stap Dairy in Pine Bush on Tuesdays June 24th and July 1st from 6:30-8:30 pm. The next 3 sessions will meet at Spruce Gate Holsteins in Walden on Tuesdays July 8, 15, and 22 from 6:30-8:30 pm. The final session for both programs will be held at The Country Fair in Otisville on Saturday, July 26th.Youth will be able to:Experience how a dairy farm operatesLearn about how they take care of cowsDo fun crafts & activitiesHave the opportunity to groom & show a calf at The Country Fair!The cost is $25/youth. Space is limited! Registration required by June 17th. Contact Zoe Lockburner at zrl7@cornell.edu with questions. $25 per participant Zoe Nafis, zrl7@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 258 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-6133625 ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, July 17, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= Orange County 4-H Dairy Explorers 2025 Tuesday, July 22, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Did you know? Milk and dairy products are New York state’s top agricultural commodity!Do you want to learn more about where milk comes from and see the cows that make it, right here in our county?Orange County 4-H is hosting a 5-week Dairy Explorer’s programs at local farms. Age range is 8-18!The first 2 sessions will meet at Stap Dairy in Pine Bush on Tuesdays June 24th and July 1st from 6:30-8:30 pm. The next 3 sessions will meet at Spruce Gate Holsteins in Walden on Tuesdays July 8, 15, and 22 from 6:30-8:30 pm. The final session for both programs will be held at The Country Fair in Otisville on Saturday, July 26th.Youth will be able to:Experience how a dairy farm operatesLearn about how they take care of cowsDo fun crafts & activitiesHave the opportunity to groom & show a calf at The Country Fair!The cost is $25/youth. Space is limited! Registration required by June 17th. Contact Zoe Lockburner at zrl7@cornell.edu with questions. $25 per participant Zoe Nafis, zrl7@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 258 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-6133625 ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 minute Gardening Lessons @ Town of Monroe Community Garden Wednesday, July 23, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Town of Monroe Community Garden, 1465 Orange Turnpike , Monroe, NY 10950 Join us on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Town Of Monroe Community Garden located at Town Hall for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously. The youth program is recommended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the Town Hall building located adjacent to the garden.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Mary Pobedinsky at mpobedinsky@gmail.com or call her at (845) 782-3319.Members of the Town of Monroe Community Garden should contact Mary Pobedinsky for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more. Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsNewburgh Armory Unity Center GardenDate Topic Description Wednesday, April 30th @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Wednesday, May 28th @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Wednesday, June 25th @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Wednesday, July 22nd @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Wednesday, August 20th @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Wednesday, September 24th @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=892 ========================================= The Country Fair 2025 Thursday, July 24, 2025 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County and the Otisville Lions Club is pleased to announce the third annual Country Fair, Otisville, NY.The Country Fair will have something for everyone, including live entertainment, 4-H exhibits, animal shows, amusement rides, tractor pulls, delicious food, local vendors, life skills demonstrations and so much more!Dates for 2025 Fair: Thursday, July 24: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday, July 25: 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Saturday, July 26: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday, July 27: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday Night Fireworks! *9:00 p.m.*Admission: FREEParking Fee: $10/carPLEASE NOTE:NO CONTAINERS PERMIT UPON ENTRANCE TO THE FAIR.NO SMOKING OR VAPING ON THE PROPERTY.NO ALCOHOL PERMITTED.NO FIREARMS.NO ANIMALS UNLESS EXHIBITING.NO DOGS, BESIDES SERVICE DOGS AND DOGS PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS DURING THE FAIR. Admission: FREE Parking Fee: $10/car Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: https://cceorangecounty.org/the-country-fair ========================================= The Country Fair 2025 Friday, July 25, 2025 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County and the Otisville Lions Club is pleased to announce the third annual Country Fair, Otisville, NY.The Country Fair will have something for everyone, including live entertainment, 4-H exhibits, animal shows, amusement rides, tractor pulls, delicious food, local vendors, life skills demonstrations and so much more!Dates for 2025 Fair: Thursday, July 24: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday, July 25: 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Saturday, July 26: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday, July 27: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday Night Fireworks! *9:00 p.m.*Admission: FREEParking Fee: $10/carPLEASE NOTE:NO CONTAINERS PERMIT UPON ENTRANCE TO THE FAIR.NO SMOKING OR VAPING ON THE PROPERTY.NO ALCOHOL PERMITTED.NO FIREARMS.NO ANIMALS UNLESS EXHIBITING.NO DOGS, BESIDES SERVICE DOGS AND DOGS PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS DURING THE FAIR. Admission: FREE Parking Fee: $10/car Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: https://cceorangecounty.org/the-country-fair ========================================= The Country Fair 2025 Saturday, July 26, 2025 9:00 am - 10:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County and the Otisville Lions Club is pleased to announce the third annual Country Fair, Otisville, NY.The Country Fair will have something for everyone, including live entertainment, 4-H exhibits, animal shows, amusement rides, tractor pulls, delicious food, local vendors, life skills demonstrations and so much more!Dates for 2025 Fair: Thursday, July 24: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday, July 25: 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Saturday, July 26: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday, July 27: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday Night Fireworks! *9:00 p.m.*Admission: FREEParking Fee: $10/carPLEASE NOTE:NO CONTAINERS PERMIT UPON ENTRANCE TO THE FAIR.NO SMOKING OR VAPING ON THE PROPERTY.NO ALCOHOL PERMITTED.NO FIREARMS.NO ANIMALS UNLESS EXHIBITING.NO DOGS, BESIDES SERVICE DOGS AND DOGS PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS DURING THE FAIR. Admission: FREE Parking Fee: $10/car Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: https://cceorangecounty.org/the-country-fair ========================================= Great Extension Duck Derby 2025 Sunday, July 27, 2025 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 The 11th annual Great Extension Duck Derby will be held at CCE Orange County's Education Center and 4-H Park on Sunday, July 27, during The Country Fair!If you would like to help sell tickets or purchase tickets to enter ducks into the race, please contact Jill at 845-344-1234.Ducks are sponsored at $5 a piece or five ducks for $20.All proceeds support our Education Center & 4-H Park. Prizes are given to the 5 fastest ducks ($500 for 1st place), and there is even a prize for the “Lame Duck” – last place! Prize Options:1st duck - $5002nd - 5th ducks - $20 "Lame" duck - $20Click here to purchase your tickets online!Please support this terrific event!Interested in sponsoring this event? Click here for options. $5/duck or $20/5 ducks Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=839 ========================================= The Country Fair 2025 Sunday, July 27, 2025 9:00 am - 9:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County and the Otisville Lions Club is pleased to announce the third annual Country Fair, Otisville, NY.The Country Fair will have something for everyone, including live entertainment, 4-H exhibits, animal shows, amusement rides, tractor pulls, delicious food, local vendors, life skills demonstrations and so much more!Dates for 2025 Fair: Thursday, July 24: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Friday, July 25: 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Saturday, July 26: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday, July 27: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Sunday Night Fireworks! *9:00 p.m.*Admission: FREEParking Fee: $10/carPLEASE NOTE:NO CONTAINERS PERMIT UPON ENTRANCE TO THE FAIR.NO SMOKING OR VAPING ON THE PROPERTY.NO ALCOHOL PERMITTED.NO FIREARMS.NO ANIMALS UNLESS EXHIBITING.NO DOGS, BESIDES SERVICE DOGS AND DOGS PARTICIPATING IN EVENTS DURING THE FAIR. Admission: FREE Parking Fee: $10/car Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: https://cceorangecounty.org/the-country-fair ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Newburgh Armory Unity Center Community Garden Tuesday, August 12, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 Join us on the second Tuesday of the month out at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) Community Garden for a quick gardening lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  The youth program is reccomended for youth ages 5-10.Unless otherwise noted, sessions will take place in the garden which is located around the back of the NAUC. If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the NAUC. Please enter through the back entrance. The class will be held in the room found on your right immediately upon entering the building.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Lisa Rittweger at lrittweger@newburgharmory.org or call her at (845) 978-8845.Members of the Newburgh Armory Community Garden should contact Lisa Rittweger for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsTown of Monroe Community Garden Date Topic Description Tuesday, April 8 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. This lesson will be taught indoors, please enter through the back entrance. Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 10 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 8 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 12 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 9 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGNEWBURGH ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Middletown Community Garden Tuesday, August 19, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore Heights, David Moore Place (off of Genung Street) , Middletown, NY 10940 Join us on the third Tuesday of the month at the Middletown Community Garden at David Moore Heights for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  Youth program reccomended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office located at 18 Seward Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940.All registrants will be notified of the location change.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Susan Ndiaye at sgn32@cornell.edu or call her at (845) 344-1234 (ext. 250).Members of the Middletown Community Garden should contact Susan Ndiaye for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Newburgh Armory Community GardenTown of Monroe Community GardenDate Topic Description Tuesday, April 15 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Tuesday, May 20 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 17 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 15 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 19 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 16 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.250 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGMIDDLETOWN ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 minute Gardening Lessons @ Town of Monroe Community Garden Wednesday, August 20, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Town of Monroe Community Garden, 1465 Orange Turnpike , Monroe, NY 10950 Join us on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Town Of Monroe Community Garden located at Town Hall for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously. The youth program is recommended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the Town Hall building located adjacent to the garden.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Mary Pobedinsky at mpobedinsky@gmail.com or call her at (845) 782-3319.Members of the Town of Monroe Community Garden should contact Mary Pobedinsky for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more. Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsNewburgh Armory Unity Center GardenDate Topic Description Wednesday, April 30th @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Wednesday, May 28th @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Wednesday, June 25th @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Wednesday, July 22nd @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Wednesday, August 20th @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Wednesday, September 24th @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=892 ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, August 21, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= 2025 Creating a Terrarium Workshop Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Learn how to make a landscape in a jar! Terrariums offer a different way to bring plants into your home. They are simple to create and are low maintenance.During this workshop you will learn all about terrariums including how to create and maintain them. Each participant will create a beautiful terrarium to take home and enjoy. Registration closes: Friday, August 29th.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people.Sorry, no refunds. If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $40 per person, includes all materials to make a terrarium. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025CREATEATERRARIUM ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Newburgh Armory Unity Center Community Garden Tuesday, September 9, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 Join us on the second Tuesday of the month out at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) Community Garden for a quick gardening lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  The youth program is reccomended for youth ages 5-10.Unless otherwise noted, sessions will take place in the garden which is located around the back of the NAUC. If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the NAUC. Please enter through the back entrance. The class will be held in the room found on your right immediately upon entering the building.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Lisa Rittweger at lrittweger@newburgharmory.org or call her at (845) 978-8845.Members of the Newburgh Armory Community Garden should contact Lisa Rittweger for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsTown of Monroe Community Garden Date Topic Description Tuesday, April 8 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. This lesson will be taught indoors, please enter through the back entrance. Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 10 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 8 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 12 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 9 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGNEWBURGH ========================================= 10th Annual Bountiful Harvest Celebration Friday, September 12, 2025 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Come join us at the 10th Annual Bountiful Harvest Celebration at our Education Center & 4-H Park! You don’t want to miss out on an autumn evening filled with good old-fashioned fun and delicious food prepared from local farms! Festivities will include hay wagon rides, a sumptuous farm-to-table dinner prepared with locally sourced favorites and the highlight event – a celebrity cow milking contest. All proceeds from the event will support the continued development of the Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike, Otisville, New York.Date: Friday, September 12, 2025Time: 5 PM - 9 PMLocation: Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike, Otisville, NY 10963Reservations: *This early-bird special is limited from June 1st to July 1*Reservation Pricing: - Single Ticket, $150- Ticket for Two, $300- Table for Eight, $1,000 Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.261 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025BountifulHarvestCelebration ========================================= 2025 Gardening Classes Saturday, September 13, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2025 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers classes will be held on Saturdays @ 10:00 am, unless otherwise noted. Sign-up for as many classes as you would like. 2025 Gardening Classes Date & Time Topic Description Saturday, June 14th @ 10:00 am Creating a Wildflower Meadow Turning a lawn into a wildflower meadow, a beautiful, interactive plant community made up of native flowers, grasses and sedges, can be a rewarding, creative process. Not only do wildflower meadows attract pollinators and help the environment, they also provide important ecosystem services like infiltration and filtration of stormwater, and nutrient recycling. While most of the work is done during the first year, when planning and planting, it can take a few years to ensure its success. Come learn how to establish a wildflower meadow in your yard — choosing a site, selecting plant species, planting, maintenance, long term expectations. Saturday, September 13th @ 10:00 am All about Trees! Come learn all about trees — planting, fertilizing, watering, mulching, pruning etc. After an hour long lecture learning the basics, we’ll take an hour long walk around our campus learning how to identify trees and seeing how proper and improper care affects their growth. This class will take place rain or shine, so please dress appropriately. Saturday, October 25th @ 10:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/CCEGARDENINGWORKSHOPS25 ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 Minute Gardening Lessons @ Middletown Community Garden Tuesday, September 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore Heights, David Moore Place (off of Genung Street) , Middletown, NY 10940 Join us on the third Tuesday of the month at the Middletown Community Garden at David Moore Heights for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously.  Youth program reccomended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office located at 18 Seward Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940.All registrants will be notified of the location change.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Susan Ndiaye at sgn32@cornell.edu or call her at (845) 344-1234 (ext. 250).Members of the Middletown Community Garden should contact Susan Ndiaye for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more.Newburgh Armory Community GardenTown of Monroe Community GardenDate Topic Description Tuesday, April 15 @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Tuesday, May 20 @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Tuesday, June 17 @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Tuesday, July 15 @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Tuesday, August 19 @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Tuesday, September 16 @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.250 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025OTGMIDDLETOWN ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, September 18, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= 2025 Out in the Garden: 30 minute Gardening Lessons @ Town of Monroe Community Garden Wednesday, September 24, 2025 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Town of Monroe Community Garden, 1465 Orange Turnpike , Monroe, NY 10950 Join us on the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Town Of Monroe Community Garden located at Town Hall for a quick garden lesson. We will have both an adult and youth program running simultaneously. The youth program is recommended for youth ages 5-10.If there is inclement weather, sessions will take place inside the Town Hall building located adjacent to the garden.Each session costs $5 per family or $25 for all six sessions. Scholarships are also available. Please email Mary Pobedinsky at mpobedinsky@gmail.com or call her at (845) 782-3319.Members of the Town of Monroe Community Garden should contact Mary Pobedinsky for a discount code.The same program is also being held on different days at two other locations. Click on the location to find out more. Middletown Community Garden @ David Moore HeightsNewburgh Armory Unity Center GardenDate Topic Description Wednesday, April 30th @ 6:00 pm Planning your Vegetable Garden There are so many different kinds of vegetables to grow! Come learn the basics of planning your vegetable garden so that your plants are in a place where they can thrive. Wednesday, May 28th @ 6:00 pm Direct Seeding and Transplanting Now that the ground has warmed, it is time to get all of your plants in the ground. Join us in the garden to learn proper seeding and transplanting techniques. Wednesday, June 25th @ 6:00 pm Garden Maintenance Watering and weeding seem to be everlasting jobs. Learn tricks reduce the time you spend watering and weeding your garden. Wednesday, July 22nd @ 6:00 pm Pest Management Do you ever wonder if an insect is a friend or foe? Come learn about garden insects as well as common vegetable diseases. Wednesday, August 20th @ 6:00 pm Harvesting & Cooking Delicious garden produce is abundant in late summer and early fall.Learn the proper way to harvest, store, and prepare your bounty. Wednesday, September 24th @ 6:00 pm Fall Gardening Come learn what crops thrive in the cool fall weather as well as what plants can be planted in fall for spring and summer harvest next year. During this session you will also learn what you can leave in the garden and what should be removed as well as techniques to protect your soil during the coming winter. $5 per family / session OR $25 per family / 6 sessions Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=892 ========================================= 2025 Dyeing with Fresh Indigo Saturday, September 27, 2025 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Come learn how to dye with fresh indigo leaves with local artisan Kirsten Gabrielsen.In this hands-on workshop you will learn how to use the indigo plant (Persicaria tincoria) straight from the garden! This is a seasonal method of dyeing that can only be done in the summer months when the indigo plants are actively growing. First we will harvest leaves from fresh cut plants. Then participants will learn how to extract the dye using only indigo leaves, ice and salt. Each participant will get experience both preparing dye from the Indigo plants, and dying sample skeins of yarn.Registration closes: Friday, September 19th.  Registration is limited to the first 12 people.Sorry, no refunds. If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $30 per person, includes all materials to dye two sample skeins of yarn. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/DYEINGWITHFRESHINDIGO ========================================= 2025 Create a Succulent Pumpkin Workshop Saturday, October 11, 2025 10:00 am - 11:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for a step-by-step demonstration on how to craft your own unique fall succulent pumpkin centerpiece on a resin pumpkin. Create a perfect gift or a showpiece for your Thanksgiving table using succulents, acorns, moss, and other natural materials. With proper care, it will last for months, and the best part is no carving is required! Just bring your creativity!Registration closes: Friday, October 3rd.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people.Sorry, no refunds, if you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $40 per person, includes all materials to make a succulent pumpkin. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025CREATEASUCCULENTPUMPKIN ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Monday, October 13, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, October 16, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= 2025 Ulster County Agroforestry Field Day Series Thursday, October 23, 2025 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Interested in incorporating agroforestry practices into your farm? Join us for a 3-part series co-hosted by CCE Ulster, Orange, and Harvest NY with Mastwood Farms, Black Creek Farm and Nursery and Scenic Hudson. Tour an agroforestry nursery, diverse planting sites and join a hands-on planting demonstration. Presenters will discuss why to consider agroforestry and how to get started.Event Dates: Part 1: Agroforestry Nursery Tour, Propagation and Species Selection at Black Creek Farm & Nursery in Highland, NY Date: Thursday, May 15, 3-5 PM Join us for a tour of Black Creek’s plant nursery, discussions on woody plant propagation and species selection for agroforestry projects with farmer and CCE Orange Educator Erik Schellenberg. Learn about Cornell and CCE Agroforestry Resources from CCE Ulster Educator Kathryn Brignac and funding resources with Harvest NY Ag Climate Resilience Specialist Savanna Shelnutt. Part 2: Agroforestry Installation and Tree Planting Demo at Mastwood Farms in Kerhonkson, NY Date: Thursday, June 5, 4-6 PM Join Costa Boutsikaris of Mastwood Farms and Erik Schellenberg of CCE Orange /Black Creek Farm and Nursery for a tour of their recent agroforestry planting site and discussion. Hear about planting preparation and design, followed by a hands-on tree-planting. Tour Mastwood’s fruit and nut trees selected for the Rondout Valley and discuss considerations for different species and soil types. Species include Hazelnut, Chestnut, Hickory, Persimmon, Plum and Elderberry. Learn about Scenic Hudson’s programs with Annie Christian.Part 3: Agroforestry Implementation and Management at Black Creek Farm & Nursery in Highland, NY Date: Thursday October 23rd, 3-5 PM Return to Erik’s farm, Black Creek Farm and Nursery, for a Fall tour of their agroforestry plantings. Erik will talk about harvesting and managing plantings while we see some seasonal crops and installations of different ages and types. There will be time for questions and discussion as we wrap up the series. $10 per session or $25 discounted ticket price (limited number) for all 3 dates. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited so register in advance. Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext.260 Registration: https://www.cceevents.org/e/2025-ulster-county-agroforestry-field-day-series ========================================= 2025 Gardening Classes Saturday, October 25, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2025 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers classes will be held on Saturdays @ 10:00 am, unless otherwise noted. Sign-up for as many classes as you would like. 2025 Gardening Classes Date & Time Topic Description Saturday, June 14th @ 10:00 am Creating a Wildflower Meadow Turning a lawn into a wildflower meadow, a beautiful, interactive plant community made up of native flowers, grasses and sedges, can be a rewarding, creative process. Not only do wildflower meadows attract pollinators and help the environment, they also provide important ecosystem services like infiltration and filtration of stormwater, and nutrient recycling. While most of the work is done during the first year, when planning and planting, it can take a few years to ensure its success. Come learn how to establish a wildflower meadow in your yard — choosing a site, selecting plant species, planting, maintenance, long term expectations. Saturday, September 13th @ 10:00 am All about Trees! Come learn all about trees — planting, fertilizing, watering, mulching, pruning etc. After an hour long lecture learning the basics, we’ll take an hour long walk around our campus learning how to identify trees and seeing how proper and improper care affects their growth. This class will take place rain or shine, so please dress appropriately. Saturday, October 25th @ 10:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/CCEGARDENINGWORKSHOPS25 ========================================= 2025 Natural Plant Dyes - Hands-on Workshop Saturday, November 8, 2025 10:00 am - 1:30 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Come learn the art of natural plant dyeing with local artisan Kirsten Gabrielsen!Kirsten grows and forages for plants such as cosmos, goldenrod, phragmites, coreopsis, amaranth, chamomile, and indigo. She then creates vibrant colored dyes from their blooms and/or leaves, which she uses to produce skeins of beautifully dyed natural fiber yarns.Come explore the various dye colors you can create using plants that are easily grown right here in Orange County. Learn how to create vibrant colored dyes and all of the steps involved in the dyeing process. First you will learn about the art of creating natural plant dyes followed by a hands-on dyeing project. Each participant will get experience both preparing dye from plants and dyeing yarn and leave with two sample skeins of naturally dyed yarn.Hand-dyed yarn will be available for purchase after the workshop. Registration closes: Friday, October 31st.  Registration is limited to the first 12 people.Sorry, no refunds, if you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $30 per person, includes all materials to dye two sample skeins of yarn. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025NATPLANTDYESWRKSP ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Tuesday, November 11, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, November 20, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Thursday, November 27, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Friday, November 28, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= 2025 Holiday Kissing Ball Workshop Friday, December 5, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful kissing ball.Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people for the morning session and the first 9 people for the evening session.Sorry, no refunds. If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make on kissing ball. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025KISSINGBALL ========================================= 2025 Holiday Wreath Workshop Friday, December 5, 2025 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful holiday wreath.Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session.Sorry, no refunds.If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make one holiday wreath. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025HOLIDAYWREATH ========================================= 2025 Create a Holiday Tabletop Tree Friday, December 5, 2025 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful tabletop tree.Join us for this great family project!Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session.Sorry, no refunds, if you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make one tabletop tree Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025TABLETOPTREE ========================================= 2025 Holiday Wreath Workshop Friday, December 5, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful holiday wreath.Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session.Sorry, no refunds.If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make one holiday wreath. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025HOLIDAYWREATH ========================================= 2025 Holiday Kissing Ball Workshop Friday, December 5, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful kissing ball.Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people for the morning session and the first 9 people for the evening session.Sorry, no refunds. If you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make on kissing ball. Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025KISSINGBALL ========================================= 2025 Create a Holiday Tabletop Tree Friday, December 5, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens.This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration.Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful tabletop tree.Join us for this great family project!Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, December 1st.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session.Sorry, no refunds, if you can’t attend, please send someone in your place. $50 per person, includes all materials to make one tabletop tree Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2025TABLETOPTREE ========================================= 2025 Gardening Questions Answered - 3rd Thursday Virtual Series Thursday, December 18, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. Note that April's session will be on the fourth Thursday, and June's session will be on the second Thursday.You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session and post the recording on our YouTube Channel. Click here to watch all of our past Garden Questions Answered Programs!Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 16th 12:00 pm Drought Stress in the Landscape Thursday, February 20th 12:00 pm Winter Sowing Thursday, March 27th 12:00 pm Phenology and Gardening Thursday, April 24th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects: Spongy Moth and Spotted Lanternfly Thursday, May 22nd 12:30 pm Conditioning your Cut Flowers Thursday, June 12th 12:00 pm Water-Wise Gardening Thursday, July 17th 12:00 pm Keystone Native Plants Friday, August 21st 12:00 pm Natives versus Nativars Thursday, September 18th 12:00 pm Native Plant Seed Propagation Thursday, October 16th 12:00 pm Leave the Leaves! Thursday, November 20th 12:00 pm Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Thursday, December 18th 12:00 pm Asexual Houseplant Propagation Free! Katy Boula, keb332@cornell.edu, (845) 344-1234, Ext. 240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fL4HiRiqpPgcSy ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Wednesday, December 24, 2025 8:30 am - 12:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  ========================================= Holiday Office Closure Thursday, December 25, 2025 8:30 am - 4:30 pm The office will be closed in observance of the holiday.  =========================================