HomeArchive by Category "extension"

MS Research Fellowship – Forestry, VT

M.S. Research Assistantship in Extension Forestry

Project: The University of Vermont Extension Forestry program has an opening for an M.S.-level graduate student to work on an Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funded project investigating climate-focused forest management in Vermont. This research is part of a larger project to develop resources, outreach, and scientific information to promote actions that foster forest resilience under global change.

The MS student’s project will focus on establishing long-term forest monitoring plots throughout Vermont to assess current conditions, evaluate how landowners and foresters are implementing climate-focused forest management strategies, and investigate if these actions are creating conditions that confer resilience. A primary goal of this project is to provide landowners and practitioners easy to understand guidelines for advancing forest resilience. The MS student will work closely with Dr. Kosiba, student interns, landowners, foresters, and a team of state agency and non-profit partners. The student will have opportunities to be involved in a diverse array of research and outreach efforts through the UVM Forestry Extension program.

Applications will be considered for Summer or Fall 2025, and includes two guaranteed years of funding (stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance).

Application: Interested applicants should supply all application materials to the UVM Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources (RSENR) Program (MS in Natural Resources) by February 1, 2025. When applying, please state your interest in this position in the “Statement of Purpose”.

Contact: Dr. Ali Kosiba (alexandra.kosiba@uvm.edu)

For more information: https://uvmd10.drup2.uvm.edu/rsenr/graduate-assistantships-and-fellowships

JOB: Climate Stewards Outreach Coordinator, Cornell, applications due Jan 16

Applications are due January 16, 2025.

Climate Stewards Outreach Coordinator

Extension Associate

New York Sea Grant

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Cornell University

Ithaca, New York

Who We Are

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world’s complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

New York Sea Grant is a cooperative program between the State University of New York and Cornell University. Established in 1971, Sea Grant implements educational problem-solving programs for coastal resource users, businesses, and agencies. Sea Grant supports research and provides extension education to coastal resource agencies, users, businesses, and residents and is patterned after the land-grand concept; programs include coastal zone management, tourism and small business development, coastal environmental quality, and seafood processing.

What You Will Do

As the Climate Stewards Outreach Coordinator, you will serve as a primary resource on climate science and climate solutions through developing, maintaining, and enhancing the curricula for the Cornell Climate Stewards program. Additionally, you will support educators in program delivery, evaluation, and reporting through maintaining and updating training materials, conducting annual “train-the-trainer sessions, and assisting with remote delivery of the program. Other responsibilities include:

Developing, implementing, and evaluating programming based on clientele’s needs as identified
Conducting extension and outreach programming and tools
Disseminating information on climate science, impacts, mitigation, adaptation, communication, and local government function
Designing, executing, and analyzing of extension/outreach program evaluations.
Coordinating and conducting outreach efforts to non-professional community members for an adult-based learning program on climate change.

What We Need

We are looking for an individual who excels at building relationships with multiple stakeholders, businesses, non-profit organizations, and environmental justice communities. We need someone who is self-motivated and has strong customer service skills with a focus on excellence. Additionally, we need someone who has:

Master’s degree in climate science, climate communication, environmental management/policy, planning, or other related fields.
2+ years of experience working in outreach extension, or similar public education program.
Knowledge of principles, theory, research, and educational materials in the subject matter field and knowledge of extension methods related to the area of specialization.
Ability to disseminate scientific research.
Knowledge of New York State climate change law and policy.
Advanced computer skills and the ability to use computer and long-distance education technologies in this area of extension programming expertise.
Knowledge to define, conduct, and interpret original applied research and/or demonstration projects.
Ability to effectively participate in professional team efforts; relate effectively to co-workers, advisors, various stakeholders (e.g., local government, community organizations, coastal businesses, etc.), community and professional leaders, and targeted audiences.
Communicate effectively through oral, written, and visual channels.
Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license and be cleared to drive for university business.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

5+ years of experience working with outreach or similar public education program.
Experience with facilitation.
Demonstrated ability to develop adult educational/outreach programs.

This position is full-time and will be located in Ithaca, New York. There is the opportunity to work remotely within New York State two days a week; an on-site presence is required three days a week. Moderate travel (approximately 10%) will be required throughout New York State.

This is a three-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

Rewards and Benefits

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.

Salary is based upon experience/qualifications and is within the following range: $44,800 to $80,000.
Cornell has a comprehensive total rewards program that offers several benefits options to meet your needs. More information on our wonderful programs can be found at https://hr.cornell.edu/jobs/your-total-rewards.

To apply:

Please apply via Academic Jobs Online https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/29434.

Qualified candidates should submit a short cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, and a statement supporting diverse communities (this can be a stand-alone document (preferred) or the information can be embedded in other parts of the application materials) outlining how, through research, teaching, service, mentoring, extension, and/or outreach, the candidate has and will contribute to support Cornell’s historical mission of “any person … any study,” via the website.

Applications must be submitted by January 16th.

For a full position description, go to https://seagrant.sunysb.edu/articles/t/job-announcement-climate-stewards-outreach-coordinator-climate-news or contact Norma Gunn (nlg43@cornell.edu or 607-255-2832).

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League and Land-grant university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university’s mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.

Cornell’s regional and global presence includes state-wide Cornell Cooperative Extension programs and offices in all counties and boroughs, global partnerships with institutions and communities engaged in life-changing research and education, the medical college’s campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Doha, Qatar, and the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City.

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

Katherine Bunting-Howarth, JD PhD

Associate Director, New York Sea Grant

National NRCS offering Technical Support Provider (TSP) trainings, Dec 9 and 19.

NRCS is providing two opportunities to complete the TSP Orientation and Conservation Planning course required for the Technical Service Provider (TSP) application. If you know of anyone that needs to complete this course for their TSP Application, please share this information with them.  Additional dates for this live webinar in 2025 are being discussed.

This training will be offered through a live webinar, once on December 9, 2024, and repeated on December 19, 2024. Both options are free of charge and are offered as an alternative to the recorded training available in AgLearn (NRCS-NEDC-000191).  Please register by clicking on the TSP Orientation date and time you wish to attend in table below.  Your chosen link will send you to the Registration page where you will enter your name and email address, then you are all set!

Course Date Course Session Link Eastern Central Mountain Pacific
December 9, 2024 TSP Orientation Registration – December 9, 2024 12:00 – 3: 30 pm 11:00 – 2: 30 pm 10:00 – 1:30 pm 9:00 – 12:30 pm
December 19th, 2024 TSP Orientation Registration – December 19, 2024

Please contact the TSP branch at tsp@usda.gov if you have any questions, concerns, or need any accommodations including language interpretation services.

We look forward to having you attend the event!

The TSP Branch Staff

CPTAD | TSP Branch

Electrify NY! Panel November 19, 2:30pm (free online registration)

Join us for a panel presentation of opportunities for NYers to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions through efficiency and electrification!

 

Electrify New York (a Panel on Efficiency & eElectrification Opportunities)

  • November 19
  • 2:30-4pm
  • G01 Biotech
  • Recordings embedded in titles below.

See also the Nov 20 companion hands-on Energy Expo: Featuring fossil-fuel-free equipment, tools, tech, & management strategies

 

 

PANEL: Electrify New York (efficiency & electrification opportunities)

Efficiency+Electrification = Improved Air Quality + Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions + Conserved NYS Natural Resources

In 2019, New York State passed ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigating legislation. Most of NYS’s greenhouse gas emissions come from combusting fossil fuels for heating, cooling, and transportation used in our personal and professional lives. Anything we can do in our local communities to reduce this fossil combustion improves our air quality, reduces GHG, and reduces the demand on rural landscapes to support renewable energy projects. Come join a panel of Extension, Community Organizers, NYS Office of Climate, and Technical Service Providers as we discuss opportunities that mobilize energy efficiency and electrification projects in our local communities to conserve our shared natural resources.

Panelists (recordings accessed by clicking on the titles)

 

Did You Know

Most of our Greenhouse Gas emissions come from fueling our buildings and transportation?

    • These emissions can be reduced dramatically by efficiency and electrification while improving equity and well-being for all.

 

 

Did You Know

In 2019, NYS passed unprecedented legislation: Reduce GHG emissions 85% by 2050?

 

 

This panel is part of the larger 3-day Cornell Cooperative Extension conference: Agriculture, Food & Environmental Systems In-Service (Nov 19-21, 2024)

DEFINITIONS:

  • Decarbonization: reducing or eliminating carbon (fossil fuel) emissions from a sector (transportation, buildings, and power).
  • Electrification: replacing technologies that run on fossil fuels with alternatives that run efficiently on electricity. It also means generating all that electricity from clean energy rather than fossil fuels.
  • Weatherization: home improvements that reduce energy use and make homes more comfortable (moisture control, air sealing, ventilation, and upgrades to insulation, doors and windows).

Fall Webinar Series: Climate and Communities 2nd wed/month 1pm EST, free

Join us for 4 free webinars scheduled for this fall from across the United States.

 

WHEN:

  • 2nd Wednesday of the month
  • 1pm EST
  • Please register for each event of interest

Most events will be recorded and shared publicly here, after the event recording has been processed.

Scroll for more details about each event, below.

September 11, 1pm EST: YOUTH & Climate, all youth recordings Here!

This hour long webinar will  discuss multiple ways to engage youth with climate change: teaching the need to replace fossil fuels in our energy systems, programs to support youth climate digital app development, and working creating culturally inclusive curricula with indigenous communities.

TITLE: Where Does Gasoline Go? Why We Must Replace Fire in Our Energy System
PRESENTER: Don Haas (Director of Teacher Programming at The Paleontological Research Institution)

Did you know a gallon of gasoline weighs about six pounds? Burning ten gallons of gas a week means sixty pounds seemingly disappear from the tank. What becomes of it, when placed in the context of 374 million gallons that we burn in the US every day, is an astonishing but undeniably true tale. Where does it go? Why should we care?

Key Resource: Climate & Energy Resources on PRI’s Earth@Home: https://climate.earthathome.org/

NOTE: PRI has online workshop in mid-October, and we can do workshops for groups. You can subscribe for announcements here: http://eepurl.com/goSjST

TITLE: Youth Power to Reduce Carbon Power
PRESENTER: Donna Nuger (4-H Youth Development Educator, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Extension)

Nuger will discuss how youth are using their interest in technology and coding to increase awareness and inspire changes in people’s habits to decrease their carbon output, leading to a reduction in global warming.

TITLE: Creating a Culturally Inclusive Climate Change Curriculum with and for Indigenous People: Lessons Learned
PRESENTER: Ros McCann (Utah State University – Moab)

As part of a national science foundation project inspired by the NECI network, Ros will share her experience in building relationships with tribal members in the Colorado Plateau region. This will include an overview of how she formed a diverse team to co-create a climate change curriculum by and for Indigenous participants, what the curriculum entailed and the products that resulted from this process. Coverage here: https://www.usu.edu/today/story/usu-helps-host-unique-and-indigenous-student-specific-natural-resource-leadership-program

Curriculum can be found here:Utah NATURE Climate Module_ A Co-Created Menu Utah NATURE Climate Module_ A Co-Created Menu

 

SPEAKER BIOS

Don Haas (formerly, Don Duggan-Haas) is the Director of Teacher Programming at The Paleontological Research Institution and its Museum of the Earth & Cayuga Nature Center in Ithaca, NY. He is a nationally regarded expert in climate and energy education, place-based and technology-rich Earth and environmental science education; and is a past president of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. He is co-author of the books, The Teacher-Friendly Guide to Climate Change and The Science Beneath the Surface: A Very Short Guide to the Marcellus Shale. He strives to help others thrive in their teaching and learning, especially as related to climate and energy and he wants you to talk more about fire.

Donna Nuger joined University of Illinois Extension in 2004. During her tenure, she has focused on STEM and Youth Leadership. Environmental education field trips for youth in grades K-8 have ranged from the half day program, Pumpkin Day for the little ones to full day events like Natural Resources Day and multi-day events that included Environmental Science in Action with hands on research and career exploration. Nuger initiated and implemented 4-H Science Ambassadors that encouraged 4-H Teen Teachers and individual projects/research. Nuger has received and coordinated Ag Innovators Experience grants through National 4-H, funded by Monsanto/Bayer for Illinois. She looks forward to making future contributions in the area of climate change and ensuring that our youth have a healthy planet for their future.

Roslynn Brain McCann is a Professor & Sustainable Communities Extension Specialist in the Department of Environment and Society, College of Natural Resources at Utah State University. She teaches undergraduates Communicating Sustainability, helps lead the National Extension Climate Initiative, is the coordinator USU Extension Sustainability’s Utah Farm-Chef-Fork, the USU Permaculture Initiative, and Sustainable You! kids’ camps, co-leads the Utah High School Clean Air Marketing Contest, and is engaged in tribal climate change resilience.

October 9, 1pm EST: Empowering Communities: 1890 Land-Grant Institutions Tackling Climate Change, Recordings here. 

This hour long webinar will discuss the crucial role of 1890 Land-Grant Institutions in tackling climate change faced by underserved communities.

TITLE: The Climate Crisis and Environmental Justice:  Ensuring Resilience for Underserved Communities
PRESENTER: Alton Thompson (Executive Director, Association of 1890 Research Directors, ARD)

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and addressing it requires a strong commitment to research and development. For too long, environmental policy have failed to adequately address environmental injustice, particularly the unequal and cumulative effects of pollution and climate change on low-income communities and communities of color. Researchers at the 1890 land-grant universities, informed by their lived experiences of these communities, play a critical role in developing student leaders, advocates, while also supporting rigorous scientific analysis on issues like community and agricultural resiliency, climate adaptation and environmental justice.

TITLE: Leveraging AI and Innovation to Empower Future Leaders in Resource-Limited Communities
PRESENTER: Ali Fares (Professor of Water Security, Prairie View A&M University)

Dr. Fares’ academic program uses cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence to address resource challenges in the water-energy-food nexus for communities with limited resources. By training future leaders and professionals from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) through various outreach activities based on his research, Dr. Fares empowers them to tackle climate change challenges effectively and develop and implement sustainable solutions.

PRESENTER: Raymon Shange (1890 Extension Administrator, Tuskegee University Cooperative Extension)

SPEAKER BIOS

Dr. Thompson provides leadership and coordination in representing ARD in developing multistate and national priorities and implementing a regional response for the 1890 system. In addition, Thompson promotes, articulates and advocates the priorities of the 1890 region’s research agenda within the framework of the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute for Agriculture (NIFA), other federal agencies and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). Thompson serves in an executive capacity on several committees and working groups focusing on legislative issues, federal, state and private appropriation of funds for 1890 multistate research and the long-term direction of established and developing 1890 universities initiatives. Key Resource: Foundation for Food Agriculture and Research (FAR)

Ali Fares is the Endowed Professor at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), Texas and Chair of Water Security, Water Energy and Food Nexus. He is currently the editor of the Water Security Book Series.  He has edited two books and published 14 book chapters, over 20 conference proceedings, and over 74 articles in peer reviewed journals. His research interests include disaster preparedness and resiliency, flood prediction and mitigation, water security, water-energy-food nexus, watershed hydrology and management, water allocation, irrigation management, and adaptation and mitigation of climate variability. Currently he is doing research on Reducing Energy Barriers for Novel Water. Dr Fares’ research in artificial intelligence in agriculture as well as several inter-disciplinary, multi-institution projects, is supported by millions of dollars. His testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Agriculture Committee urged federal support to address “specific climate change needs of the underserved farming communities and train future professionals in climate-smart agriculture discipline.” Key Resource: https://works.bepress.com/fares-ali/

Dr. Shange’s research and teaching interests encompass the areas of: Ecology (Agroecology, Microbial Ecology, Molecular Ecology, and Ecological Engineering), Sustainable Agriculture, Impact of Climate Change on Ecosystems, Rural Energy & Water, Natural Resource Management, Integration of Art, Science and Nature, and Environmental Ethics and Justice. He has been an 1890’s Extension Administrator since 2022.

November 13, 1pm EST: ELECTRIFICATION & Climate, Recording here.

This hour long webinar will  discuss multiple ways to understand how ‘electrification’ can save money, decrease greenhouse gases, and improve health and well-being in our daily lives.

TITLE: Electrification: Climate Action or Personal Benefit?
PRESENTER: Brian Stewart (Co-Founder of Electrify Now)

Whether your motivation is to fight climate change, improve the safety and comfort of your home, reduce your health risks, or lower your energy bills, the sensible actions are the same – electrify your home and personal transportation. We will discuss how the topic of electrification can be approached from multiple entry points that each might resonate with our audience in different ways to help them to take action.

Key Resource: Electrify Now webinars on all things electrification: https://electrifynow.net/electrify-coalition-webinars

TITLE: Electrify your Landscaping Equipment: It’s Clean, It’s Quiet, It’s Healthy 
PRESENTER: Mark Puhlman (Lake Oswego Sustainability Network, Board Member)

Tackling climate change can seem to be an overwhelming proposition. But there is a key strategy that can make a major impact: Electrify Everything. Transitioning gas-powered landscaping equipment to electric helps the community take meaningful action addressing climate change while also improving air quality and reducing harmful noise levels in our community. This short talk will discuss the Lake Oswego Sustainability Network’s efforts to encourage a small community in the state of Oregon transition from Gas-powered equipment to electric landscaping equipment. Included are actions that the individual citizen can take to advance the transition.

Key Resource: https://mailchi.mp/15638b3e0577/losn-sustainability-insider-april-2021

TITLE: Energy Circuit Riders Spur Clean Energy Progress in Rural New Hampshire
PRESENTER: Sarah Brock (Clean Energy New Hampshire, Energy Circuit Rider Program Director)

New Hampshire’s unique Energy Circuit Rider (ECR) program embeds clean energy experts in rural New Hampshire communities, providing capacity and technical support to get projects done. Hosted by nonprofit Clean Energy NH and funded through a mix of philanthropic and federal sources, the program is currently supporting over 180 community-based energy projects in over 80 towns. The ECR program also supports small businesses statewide in applying for USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program, with grants for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. Join us to hear reflections from the field: what works to spur community-based clean energy action, and what you can do to move projects forward in your own community.

Key Resource: Direct Pay / Elective Pay Guide

SPEAKER BIOS

Brian Stewart is a co-founder of Electrify Now, a volunteer organization devoted to educating energy consumers and homeowners about the health and economic benefits of electrification and the role that all of us can play to accelerate the world to clean renewable energy and a sustainable future. Brian has over 40 years of experience in product design, engineering, manufacturing and sustainability and held many leadership roles at Nike Inc. including Vice President of Sustainable Innovation.

Mark Puhlman is a board member of the Lake Oswego Sustainability Network, a volunteer organization of concerned citizens in Lake Oswego, Oregon. He holds a doctorate as a nurse practitioner and has worked in the area of heart failure for 45 years. He became interested in sustainability in high school but became very active in this area about 5 years ago after he retired. He is a Board Member of the Sustainability Advisory Board of Lake Oswego as well as a Board Member of the Forest Highlands Neighborhood Association. He has been involved in electrification and urban forest preservation.

Sarah Brock joined Clean Energy New Hampshire as Director of CENH’s Energy Circuit Rider Program in 2024. Sarah works with our growing team of Energy Circuit Riders to help municipalities and small businesses plan, finance, and implement clean energy and energy efficiency projects. Prior to joining Clean Energy New Hampshire, Sarah spent over a decade implementing community-based climate, energy, and transportation programming at Vital Communities, a nonprofit serving the Upper Valley region of Vermont and New Hampshire.

December 11, 1pm EST: RESILIENCY PLANNING & Climate, Recording, here.

This hour long webinar will share three different examples for engaging resiliency planning in local communities.

TITLE: Building Climate Resiliency through Disaster Preparedness Education
PRESENTER: Kimberly Davis, Extension Emergency Management Specialist, FAMU Extension Disaster Education Programs, Florida A&M University (FAMU)

Key Resources: FEMA 2021 National Household Survey, Extension Disaster Education Network, EDEN, Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP)

TITLE: Preparing Agents of Change for Tomorrow: Building Youth Confidence and Capacity for Climate Resilient Futures in Appalachia 
PRESENTER: Megan Kruger, Evaluation and Research Specialist and Environmental Educator, West Virginia University Extension

Key Resources: NOAA community resilience education

TITLE: Filling Gaps in Coastal Communities with Asset Mapping
PRESENTER: Jack Voight, Coastal Community Resilience Immersive Training (C-CRIT) Program, Americorps Assessment Coordinator

This talk will discuss experiences working with the C-CRIT program and the work we completed. It will describe future plans for the program and how it can be improved to best fit the needs of different coastal communities. Also describe what I learned about Jones County, North Carolina and specific barriers that hinder the county’s ability to build back with resiliency.

Key Resources:https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/210678a3d94140febf96df453e60c76e

 

SPEAKER BIOS

Ms. Kimberly Davis is an Extension Agent/Emergency Management Specialist with the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Cooperative Extension Family, Youth and Community programs/4-H Youth Development. Her areas of specialization include natural resources, environmental education, disaster preparedness and safety. She has over 25 years’ experience in coordinating STEM and environmental education outreach programs including the Kids Involved in Math and Sciences (KIMS) Program, and the Forestry and Conservation Education (FACE) Summer Program. She also worked over 10 years with the Florida Division of Emergency Management as an Environmental Scientist and Planning Manager. She holds a M.S. degree in Agricultural Sciences with a major in Environmental Sciences from FAMU.

Jack Voight is an undergraduate student and researcher from North Carolina State University. majoring in Environmental Engineering and researching as part of the Coastal & Computational Hydraulics Team with mentor Dr. Casey Dietrich. Jack was born and raised on the Outer Banks, North Carolina.

To see our previous webinars, please visit our YouTube channel

Spring 2024 Topics

YOUTH & Climate, Recording Here.

STORYTELLING & Climate, Recording Here.

DIY–Self-Guided Climate Instruction, Recording Here.

COMMUNITIES & Climate, Recordings Here: WA Latine Co-created Materials, PA Women Forest Owners

AGING & Climate, Recordings Here.

 

 

 

HOST: this “CONNECTING CLIMATE to COMMUNITIES” webinar series is hosted by National Extension Climate Initiative (NECI) Curriculum Working Group – a volunteer group looking to share resources amongst interested extension educators.

This program was curated by NECI CWG Active Volunteers Summer 2024

David Kay, Cornell University

James Shope, Rutgers University

Patricia Townsend, Washington State University

Rebecca Ward, NC State University

Jenifer Wightman, Cornell University

Join us or any NECI working group -learn more here: https://nationalextensionclimateinitiative.net/workinggroups/

***NECI is actively seeking a Communications Lead, please contact David Kay if you are interested.

Energy Efficiency Programs for NY farmers, homeowners, businesses

Collaborate to Improve Energy Conservation and Efficiency on Your Farm, Home or Non-Farm Business

(and Save Money!)

(note this fact sheet was made for Western NY, but is generally applicable to the state! Thanks for sharing John Whitney!)

Jordan Miller, EnSave, Inc., (contractor on Behalf of NYSERDA)

John Whitney, Agricultural Educator, CCE-Erie

Josh Randall, Natural Resources Educator, CCE-Niagara

Farms in Western New York counties are playing a vital role in the overall success of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) Agriculture Energy Audit Program (AEAP). In Erie and Niagara Counties alone 82 farms have participated and received no-cost energy audits through the AEAP. The estimated annual energy cost savings from these 82 farms is $677,443. equipment and system modifications, if installed, mean on-farm fuel savings, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, and a stronger and more sustainable agriculture community. But we need your help to do even more.

Collaborative Opportunities for Farms

To learn more about these programs, click: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Agriculture-Energy-Assistance

On Thursday, October 24, 2024, CCE-Erie will host a Western New York Ag Energy Efficiencies Webinar from 12:00-1:30 pm. Gabriel Gurley, the Ag Energy NY Program Manager will discuss these many opportunities in more detail. Watch for registration details.

Energy Conservation for Homes and Businesses

While these agricultural energy conservation programs do not directly support home and non-farm businesses, NYSERDA is funding a network of clean energy conservation “hubs” across New York State. In Western New York, under the leadership of PUSH Buffalo/PUSH Green, the WNY Clean Energy Hub is coordinating home and business assistance for:

  • Home Energy Surveys
  • Energy Efficiency & Weatherization
  • Clean Heating and Cooling
  • Rooftop Solar
  • Community Solar
  • Green Jobs
  • Health and Safety

Seven partner organizations, under the leadership of PUSH Green (under the PUSH Buffalo umbrella) are collaborating to support this NYSERDA-funded initiative:

If you have any questions or if you want to discuss these opportunities and services in person, contact:

  • Jordon Miller, Contractor on behalf of NYSERDA, EnSave Inc., 802-434-1872, or Toll Free 800-732-1399, jordanm@ensave.com, (ensave.com);
  • John Whitney, Agricultural Educator, Cornell Cooperative Extension – Erie, 716-796-3204, jrw44@cornell.edu;
  • Josh Randall, Natural Resources Educator, Cornell Cooperative Extension-Niagara

716-433-8839, jmr486@cornell.edu;

  • Lou DeJesus, Community Energy Program Manager, PUSH Green, 716-886-1780 x215
  • Gabriel Gurley, Ag Energy NY Program Manager, Cornell Cooperative Extension-Tompkins, (607) 272-2292 ext.248, rg523@cornell.edu

5 steps for regenerative agriculture with respect to climate (targeting Hudson Valley NY)

These 5 steps were designed for small/medium farms (fruit, vegetable, grazing) in the Hudson Valley NY to build climate resilient farming.

Each step has a worksheet to help you think about it on your farm.

For more details, go here: https://regenerativefarmresilienceguide.org/

Step 1

Gather and summarize information about your operation including your assets under management and your farm goals using two simple tools to create a snapshot of your farm’s current business condition and revisit your farm and family goals.

Step 2

Learn more about the current and expected climate change effects in your region to identify the climate-related threats and opportunities specific to your farm operation.

Step 3

Select a complementary set of climate risk management strategies that draw on a diversity of farm resources to cultivate the specific and general climate resilience of your farm.

Step 4

Evaluate selected climate risk management strategies and associated practices to identify those that are a “best fit” for your farm operation.

Step 5

Make a climate resilience plan to implement a group of complementary “best fit” climate resilience practices, including a timeline, specific steps to implementation, and monitoring the performance of your new practices to climate risks.

 

 

Farmers+EXT+TA: Free Soil Health Training August 27-28 in Canandaigua, NY

American Farmland Trust (via Aaron Ristow) has a lovely invitation:
“We are seeking applicants for the New York regional Advanced Soil Health Training (ASHT). The applications will be due June 21st. The first session begins August 27-28 in Canandaigua, New York.  Participants will be expected to attend (4) in-person 2-day trainings in the region between August 2024 and April 2025. The applications are now open. Please click on this link to access the application, and this link to review application guidelines. We’re hoping to attract a diverse applicant pool; please share the information about this training with anyone who you think might be a good fit!

The Advanced Soil Health Training (ASHT) is designed for corn, soybean, wheat, and dairy farmers and farm advisors who share an interest in improving soil health and who will share their knowledge and expertise with their clients, communities, and the next generation of farmers. We will prioritize these farms types, but all farm types/sizes should apply as we aim to fill all available spots. This hands-on curriculum combines classroom time with half-day visits to innovative local farms to see soil health practices in action.

This training will be led by soil health experts Barry Fisher, Brandon Smith, and Dennis Chessman, who have each had long careers in NRCS’ Soil Health Division, in addition to regional experts from Cornell University, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, American Farmland Trust, and more. The training will address practical management challenges such as cropping systems for improved soil health; how to conduct a soil health assessment; cover crop management, (including selection, planting, termination, equipment, and more); new technologies, assessments, and products for soil health; and economic considerations. In addition to a certificate of completion, participants will also graduate with a completed Soil Health Impact Plan and guidance/resources for mentoring others in soil health practices.

This training is free of charge for all accepted applicants and includes a travel stipend to cover all costs. Although many free-soil health resources exist online, this is a unique opportunity to ask all your management questions to national and local experts in a hands-on, intensive experience. Farmers and farm advisors who choose to continue working as Soil Health Advisors will also receive a stipend for their work.

Please don’t hesitate to ask questions. I can be reached at aristow@farmland.org or (315) 748-5029.

Kind regards,

Aaron

 

Montana Job: Climate Resiliency Educator-Missoula. closes May 17.

Missoula County Ecology & Extension just posted a cool job!

 

A new full-time job opening

Missoula County’s Ecology & Extension Department is seeking a CLIMATE RESILIENCY EDUCATOR to join their team. This position leads the Extension Service’s educational efforts to help the public adapt to climate change and works in the Rocky Mountain Gardens & Exploration Center to improve outreach and education efforts to improve sustainability, adaptation, and climate resiliency. This person will do all kinds of cool, impactful things, including working on Electrify Missoula and home weatherization via the *coming soon* One Stop Shop. Head here for the job listing (scroll down). (Closes May 17!)

 

 

Representative Examples of Work

 

Develops and implements climate adaptation strategies for the public by focusing on personally relevant and meaningful information and using active and engaging teaching methods. Develops strong working relationships with other County departments, University of Montana, Montana State University, Climate Smart Missoula, and other organizations that are engaged in programs, projects and plans related to sustainability and climate resilience. Organizes and leads community meetings and programs at the Rocky Mountain Gardens & Exploration Center to help people develop plans that support adaptation, mitigation, and resiliency to climate change in their homes and businesses. Organizes educational meetings with landowners and watershed groups on adapting to climate change. Develops, organizes, and leads youth projects and programs on climate change and sustainability. Coordinates with and serves as a resource for other counties who are developing projects or programs on sustainability. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical resource on issues related to climate adaptation. Updates program website, creates and manages social media and traditional media outreach. Identifies and pursues funding opportunities to support the implementation of climate resiliency and sustainability strategies. Tracks and evaluates progress on implementation of climate adaptation strategies; develops and presents progress reports on a regular basis. Reviews plans for needed updates and initiates plan updates as needed. Supports other goals and initiatives of the Missoula County Sustainability Program such as carbon neutrality, clean electricity, waste reduction, and related topics. Performs related work as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

  • Requires a bachelor’s degree. Degrees best suited to this position are Agriculture, Horticulture, Natural Resources and Education.
  • Course work in botany, plant ecology, climate science, communications and group dynamics is desired.
  • Training in writing grant proposals is desired.
  • Requires three years of experience working in science field which included experience in outreach or technology transfer.
  • Experience in climate science application desirable. Experience writing grant proposals is desired. Experience in organizing groups is desired.

Dairy Farms: Thinking about converting from sand to separated solids bedding? April 3 workshop.

This meeting is intended for:

  • dairy farmers that currently bed with sand or
  • dairy farmers who might be interested in separating their manure for  solids bedding and/or cover+flare to destroy methane from their liquid manure storage; and
  • SWCD, CCE, NRCS, TSP, etc. agents interested in helping these farmers make management decisions for their farm.
  • Recordings of the Event, Found Here.
  • Farmer Funding Worksheet, pdf found here: Infrastructure_FundingOps_2024NY.

 

Jump to individual talks:

1:09 – Why a farm might transition away from sand bedding. Jenifer Wightman, Senior Extension Associate, School of Integrative Plant Science Soil and Crop Sciences Section, Cornell University

25:38 – Separators and farm infrastructure for solids + liquids. Ken Van Syke, Farmer/Pikeside Ag Machinery

1:13:46 – Cow Health (sand vs. solid bedding). Lindsay Ferlito, CCE North Country Regional Ag Team Farm Panel (sand vs solids bedding)

1:55:40 – Jon Patterson, Patterson Farm (Auburn, NY)

2:05:19 – Stein Farms, Dale Stein (LeRoy, NY) & NYS Soil & Water Conservation Committee

2:13:33 – Doug Shelmidine, Sheland Farms (Adams, NY)

2:44:43 – P-Index 2.0 & Comparing sand vs. solids bedding. Kirsten Workman, Pro-Dairy Funding Panel

3:30:40 – Mike Durant, Lewis County Soil & Water

3:49:20 – Thomas Pratt, USDA-NRCS

Final conversations redacted for sound quality.

This event is hosted by SWCD Jefferson and Lewis Counties in collaboration with Cornell University and Cooperative Extension.

Agenda:

We will post recordings here, if they are of sufficient quality and have speaker approval,  ~7 days after the event.