Happenings May 2025
May 2025
Fall Drought, Botryosphaeria Canker and Sick Rhodendrons
by Jennifer L. Lerner, Senior Resource Educator
.png?1746024107)
Sick Rhododendrons?
You’re not alone. As you drive around the lower Hudson Valley, you may see rhododendrons in landscapes looking poorly. Curled brown leaves, and dead looking stems may have you reaching for the ax or the chainsaw. But hold on! There’s hope.
Last fall, we had a long drought. Fall droughts affect evergreens, more than deciduous trees and shrubs. As evergreens prepare for winter dormancy, their tissues should be filled with the fluids that see them through winter and protect them from drying winds. During drought, the plants go into winter thirsty! Winter winds whip away any water in their leaves creating stress that predisposes the plant to winter burn and opportunistic pathogens.
Botryosphaeria is one such pathogen. This fungus affects many woody ornamentals, but is especially notable on rhododendrons and other broad-leaved evergreens in spring. Environmental conditions that stress the plant (like the prolonged drought we had last fall) predispose the plant to attack from the pathogen. Symptoms include wilting of growth, curling of leaves—which remain on the plant—and sunken cankers that we detected on many of the rhododendrons we see in our diagnostic lab.
Cultural methods can be effective in controlling this problem and preventing the success of the fungus. Watering the plants thoroughly during extended dry periods is essential, even for established rhododendrons. (Fungicide applications are not recommended because they have not proven to be effective for Botryosphaeria.)
What to do? First, have a lab diagnose the problem so you know what you are dealing with. In smaller plants, identify the area where the canker is visible on the affected branches and prune well below the canker into live tissue, sterilizing your pruning tools between cuts. If the plant is large with hundreds of affected twigs, allow new growth to begin and prune out the remaining dead branches, again, sterilizing pruning tools between cuts. Prune when the environment is dry (rather than during or immediately after rains).
There is hope! New growth often emerges from dormant buds along the stems when the tips have succumbed to Botryosphaeria cankers and other diseases. The established root system will help to quickly push new growth along. You may also lightly fertilize and apply mulch. Remember that tender new rhododendron foliage is attractive to deer, so plan on protecting new growth with repellents or fencing.
Sanitation of pruning tools is important because the disease is easily spread through open wounds. Remove and destroy or discard affected plant parts.
You can read all about Botryosphaeria canker from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.
Photo by L. Hess (used with permission)
Geraniums: A Feast for Your Senses!
Find them at our Plant Sale Saturday, May 10
by Helen Bowers, Master Gardener Volunteer
.png?1746024033)
Ah, geraniums! The gateway plant to gardening obsession. If you’ve ever bought “just one” and then suddenly found yourself with a porch full of pots, a flower bed bursting with color, and a strong opinion on deadheading—welcome to the club! Lucky for you, the Putnam Master Gardener Plant Sale is coming up on May 10th, and it’s bringing a spectacular selection of geraniums to tempt you once again.
The name geranium is a common term that covers hardy perennial (Geraniums sp.) and tender annual (Pelargonium sp.) geraniums, two very different groups. We can help you choose which is best. You may have heard the gardening adage, “If in doubt, plant a geranium.” These versatile plants really shine in your garden. Let’s meet the stars of the show.
Angel’s Perfume Geranium (Annual)
If flowers had a fan club, this pelargonium would be president. Angel’s Perfume boasts delicate pink and purple blooms with a scent that makes you want to stop and inhale dramatically. It thrives in full to partial sun, pairs beautifully with lavender and rosemary, and—bonus—the petals are edible! Fancy a floral garnish on your tea? Or salads? A feast for more than just your eyes.
Chocolate Mint Geranium (Annual)
No, it won’t replace dessert, but one whiff of its sweet, minty-chocolate scent, and you’ll wish it could. With pale pink flowers and aromatic leaves, this beautiful pelargomium loves partial sun and well-drained soil. Great in herb gardens alongside basil and mint, its edible leaves can jazz up teas and desserts. Garden-to-glass mojito, anyone?
Citronella Geranium (Annual)
Mosquito repellent? Maybe, maybe not. Scientists are still debating, but let’s face it—the lemony scent alone makes it worth it. Bright green leaves release a citrusy aroma when rubbed, making it perfect for patios. This pelargonium’s flowers are light pink and sporadic, but the foliage steals the show. Not exactly snack-worthy, but great for homemade oils and bug sprays. Will it keep mosquitoes away? Hard to say, but at least you’ll smell fabulous!
Lemon or Citrus Geranium (Annual)
If life gives you lemon-scented geraniums, make tea! With soft, crinkly leaves and a zesty citrus scent, this one thrives in full to partial sun and well-drained soil. The small pink flowers attract pollinators, while the edible leaves can elevate teas, jellies, and baked goods. Pair this pelargonium with chamomile and thyme for a sensory delight in the garden (and your kitchen).
Bigroot Geranium (Perennial)
This hardy perennial (Geranium macrorrhizum) offers lavender to pink blooms on upright stems in summer. This drought resistant perennial thrives in shade to part shade. What’s even better; its fuzzy, scented leaves are usually ignored by deer, making it a great addition to your Putnam County garden. Spreading as a ground cover on thick rhizomes, bigroot geranium will slowly fill a corner of any garden with delight.
Rose Geranium (Annual)
A favorite of herbalists, bakers, and anyone who loves a good sniff, Rose Geranium smells just like a fresh bouquet. With soft pinkish-lavender blooms, this pelargonium thrives in full to partial sun and well-draining soil. The leaves and flowers are edible and can be infused into syrups, jellies, or even shortbread cookies for a floral twist. Pair it with lavender and sage for an enchanting garden aroma.
Cranesbill (Perennial)
A native beauty with delicate purple flowers, Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum) is beloved by bees, butterflies, and gardeners who appreciate a plant that practically takes care of itself. Thriving in partial shade and well-drained soil, it’s a pollinator magnet. Stop by the Beauty and the Bees table to grab one before the bees beat you to it!
Ivy Geranium Hanging Baskets (Annual)
For those who like their flowers to drape elegantly rather than stand at attention, we’ve got 10” hanging baskets of Ivy Geraniums in the annuals section. These cascading charmers bloom abundantly in shades of red, pink, and white, thriving in full sun to partial shade. Perfect for porches, patios, and anyone who wants a low-maintenance floral display that practically says, “I have my life together.”
So, mark your calendar, grab your gardening gloves, and head over to Veterans Memorial Park on May 10. Whether you’re after color, fragrance, or just an excuse to buy more plants, these geraniums won’t disappoint. Just don’t be surprised if you leave with more than you planned—geranium fever is real, folks!
Photo by J. Lerner
CCE Grant-Funded Greenhouse Yields First Hydroponically Grown Lettuce Crop
by Jennifer Lerner, Senior Resource Educator
Our Greenhouse hydroponic system is growing like crazy! Our host farm Pleasant View provides the setting for this amazing project where we are growing lettuce on floating rafts. Master Gardener and youth volunteers have helped to build, seed and transfer hundreds of head lettuce to the floating rafts where plant roots dangle in a recirculating hydroponic pond. While we are currently running an experiment with Columbia University, we are donating the lettuce to Community Action Partnership (CAP) in Brewster for distribution to residents in need. We are proud to be able to offer healthful, farm-fresh produce to our Food System Partners.
Our project with Columbia University includes integrated solar panels which will partially replace the roof. These panels will collect energy from the sun which will be banked into geothermal wells to help store heat energy for use in winter and cool the panels in summer, making them more efficient. Managing energy costs is one of the challenges of growing year-round in temperate regions, where we must heat in winter and cool in summer.
Data collection will include light readings throughout the seasons, plant yield and quality, temperature and humidity. Like goldilocks, our plants need conditions that are “just right.” We’ll be striving to balance the growing conditions using solar and geothermal technologies.
We look forward to inviting youth and adult learners into this dynamic setting.
A Restful Night's Sleep for a Happier, Healthier Tomorrow
from PennState Extension
Getting quality sleep is important for maintaining mental and physical health and well-being.
Imagine waking up in the morning feeling fully rested, so that caffeinated beverages or naps are not required to make it through the day. Unfortunately, a lack of sleep is common and can impact a person's mental and physical health and well-being.
What is Sleep, and Why is it Important?
Our bodies have an internal clock, called the circadian rhythm, that regulates when we are asleep and when we are awake based on environmental cues from light and temperature (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [NHLBI], n.d.). While sleeping, your brain can recover from the day. Although it may feel like nothing happens while resting, the brain and body remain very active during sleep and enter several stages of sleep that feature many changes to eye movement, heart rate, and brain activity (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS], n.d.).
Sufficient sleep is associated with hormone balance, weight management, repair and maintenance of tissues and muscles, and immune function. In adults, getting adequate sleep is associated with a reduced risk of obesity. Two hormones that control hunger and satiety, leptin and ghrelin, are impacted by the quality and quantity of sleep. Studies suggest that getting adequate sleep is associated with an increased capacity to learn new information (NHLBI, n.d.). While you sleep, your blood pressure tends to decrease. Sleep issues may result in having elevated blood pressure for longer periods of time, leading to an increased risk of damage to the heart and blood vessels (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021).
The NHLBI (n.d.) recommends that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per day. You still need the same recommended amount of sleep as you become an older adult. As we age, sleep tends to become more sporadic, with frequent awakenings throughout the night, earlier bedtimes, and earlier wakings. Older adults may be irritable, forgetful, depressed, or more likely to fall if they do not get enough sleep at night (National Institute on Aging [NIA], 2020). Regardless of age, sleep is very important for mental and physical health.
The Importance of Sleep for Children
Sleep needs change throughout a person's life cycle. Right after birth, infants may need as much as 18 hours of sleep per day to keep up with the rapid growth and development during this stage of life (NINDS, n.d.). As children age, the need for sleep decreases, but recommended hours per day for sleep is still much higher than the sleep needs for adults because of the changes occurring in early childhood and adolescence. Children ages 6-12 years old need 9-12 hours of sleep per day, and adolescents 13-18 years old need 8-10 hours of sleep per day (CDC, 2019). Young children generally have an early bedtime and need naps throughout the day, especially for those in preschool or younger. Infants often take multiple naps per day, which are reduced to one or two naps as they get older into toddlerhood and early childhood.
Children may suffer from mood swings and lack of motivation if they do not get enough sleep (NHLBI, n.d.). As a result of lack of sleep, school performance may decline. The CDC published an article that explained that lack of sleep is associated with attention and behavior issues, especially if the child is dozing off during class and not retaining information taught by their teachers (2019). These problems may become apparent to the teacher and peers while in school. The CDC also explains that children who do not get enough sleep may also be at an increased risk for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes or obesity, behavioral problems, and physical issues.
It is essential to set a bedtime and wake-up time around the same time each day to promote a healthy sleep pattern (NHLBI, n.d.). A bedtime routine may be beneficial for a child so they know it is time to settle down for the night and go to sleep. Danielle Pacheco believes that it is helpful if children get at least one hour of exercise per day (2020). However, vigorous exercise two hours before bedtime is discouraged because it can increase energy and make it harder for children to fall asleep.
What Happens if a Person doesn't get Enough Sleep?
Sleep deficiency occurs when you do not get enough sleep, sleep at wrong times throughout the day, do not sleep well, or have a sleep disorder (NHLBI, n.d.). You may feel extremely tired throughout the day. It is also common for individuals who do not get enough sleep to doze off while reading a book, watching TV, or sitting somewhere while waiting. Not getting enough sleep can lead to difficulty with memory, decision-making, problem-solving, focusing, reaction times, and more. Delayed reaction times can be especially concerning if you are tired while driving. Drowsiness while driving increases the likelihood of getting in a car accident (Cleveland Clinic, 2020).
Insomnia is a common sleep problem, especially among older adults, that occurs when you have trouble falling and staying asleep (NIA, 2020). Over time, insomnia can become chronic and can lead to anxiety around bedtime. Creating healthier habits around bedtime, like the tips listed below, may help resolve insomnia. Always consult with a medical provider if getting enough quality sleep is becoming a problem.
Tips to Improve Sleep
The following tips can help improve sleep quality (NHLBI, n.d.):
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019).
Sleep and health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021).
How does sleep affect your heart health? U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Cleveland Clinic. (2020).
Here's what happens when you don’t get enough sleep (and how much you really need in a night).
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.).
Sleep deprivation and deficiency. National Institutes of Health. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.).
Brain basics: Understanding sleep. National Institutes of Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
National Institute on Aging. (2020).
A good night’s sleep.
National Institutes of Health.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Pacheco, D. (2020). Sleep strategies for kids. Sleep Foundation.
4-H News: Youth Awards, Puppeteers and Gardening
from Brandy Keenan, 4-H Educator
Youth Award Winners
The following 4-H members are Putnam County Youth Award Winners, honored for their “exemplary community service efforts” by the Putnam County Youth Bureau during the 40th Annual Youth Awards Dinner in April:
Karissa Escaravage (Tall Oaks)
Natalie Escaravage (TAG)
Cade Freehill (Poultry)
Keira Hammond (TAG)
Kayleigh Harney (TAG)
William Lopes (TAG)
Vanessa Mazzei (TAG)
Colin Weindel (Puppeteers and TAG)
Puppeteers Perform at Hudson Valley InterArts
by Lily Wheatley, Teen Leader 4-H Puppeteer Players
On Tuesday, April 15, the 4-H Puppeteer Players held their first performance of the year at Hudson Valley InterArts in Patterson! They performed a skit they had been working on, as well as some songs they had chosen. They also had children come up from the audience to participate in "Old MacDonald". Each child chose their own animal puppet to use and determined what each animal said. After the performance, they Players went and talked to people with their puppet counterparts. Overall, the day was a success!
Come Plant a Garden!
Registration is open for our new 4-H Garden Club, Seeds and Weeds. The club is open to youth ages 10 and older and will be held weekly on Sundays beginning June 1 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in our garden plots at Tilly Foster Farm in Brewster. Learn about pollinators, good and bad bugs, and all thing gardening. In the fall and winter months, member will learn flower pressing, dying with plants, canning, cooking and baking! Annual membership in 4-H is $35. There is a club fee of $10. Registration closes May 23. Register at
https://tinyurl.com/Seeds-and-Weeds. For more information, contact 4-H Educator Brandy Keenan at bmk98@cornell.edu.
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo With a Recipe
submitted by Josephine Quiocho, Nutrition Educator, from SNAP-Ed
Simple Fish Tacos
Seasoned chunks of cod topped with fresh diced tomatoes, shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of cilantro-infused sour cream are all served on top of a warm corn tortilla. These fish tacos are the perfect combination of simplicity and excitement.
Makes 6 servings.
Ingredients
Directions
1. Wash hands with soap and water.2. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, cilantro, and 2 Tbsp seasoning mix.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cod, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and remaining seasoning mix; pour into large skillet. Cook stirring constantly, over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes or until cod flakes easily when tested with a fork.
4. Fill warm tortillas with fish mixture.
5. Top with cabbage, tomato, sour cream mixture, lime wedges, and taco sauce.
Resource: USDA MyPlate Kitchen
Last updated May 7, 2025
Ervin Raboy, CCE Board of Directors
Ervin Raboy joined the CCE Putnam County Board of Directors earlier this year, but he's not new to CCE Putnam, volunteering in several capacities over the last few years.
He has been a farmer in Southeast since 2003. He took over his family's farm, Pleasant View, which was purchased by his grandfather, Ervin, in the 1960s. Last year, he offered to house our Columbia grant-funded hydroponic greenhouse, which we are utilizing to grow crops like lettuce to feed the people of Putnam County through organizations like Putnam CAP.
Ervin is an alumnus of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a degree in bioinformatic and molecular biology and of Westchester Community College as a registered nurse. He works, part-time, as an Emergency Room nurse in the local area.
As a prior board member of the Putnam County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board, the Putnam County Soil and Water Board, and Dutchess, Putnam, Westchester Farm Bureau, he has helped advise farmers and future farmers with agricultural education and land policies.
He is always happy to help the community and wishes to advance the entire food system.
May is ...
American Cheese Month
American Cheese Month is a grassroots celebration of North America’s delicious and diverse cheeses, and the farmers, cheesemakers, retailers, cheesemongers, and chefs who bring them to our tables.
Each American Cheese Month, the American Cheese Education Foundation raises awareness of the quality and diversity of American cheeses and encourages the support and promotion of great cheese, local foods, family farms, traditional methods, and sustainable production models.
Want to try some recipes that feature cheese? Visit SNAP-Ed NY.
Resource: ACE Foundation
Gardening for Wildlife Month
May is National Garden for Wildlife Month, a time to celebrate the impact everyday gardeners have on the lives of countless critters.
National Wildlife Federation’s Garden for Wildlife program and partnerships have engaged millions to help wildlife where people live since 1973. Americans have provided wildlife with food, water, cover, and places to raise young by creating over 300,000 certified habitats.
Resource: National Wildlife Federation
Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May celebrates Asians, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. A rather broad term, it encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands.
Like most commemorative months, it originated with Congress. In June 1978, a resolution was proposed to proclaim a week during the first ten days in May of 1979 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. The resolution was passed and signed by President Jimmy Carter on Oct. 5, 1978. In 1992, May was designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month with the name changing to include Native Hawaiians in 2021.
The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.
Resource: Asian/Pacific Heritage Month - Library of Congress
Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month in May recognizes Jewish contributions to American culture, history, military, science, government, and more.
In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month. This was a result of a concerted effort by American Jewish leaders to introduce resolutions in both the U.S. Senate and the House urging the President to proclaim a month specifically recognizing Jews in America and their contributions to the United States.
May was chosen as Jewish American Heritage Month after the 350th anniversary celebration of the American Jewish community in May 2004. This anniversary marked the arrival of Jewish refugees in New Amsterdam (now New York City) in 1654.
Resource: Jewish American Heritage Month
National Strawberry Month
Bright and tasty is what the month of May represents. Sunny skies bring in National Strawberry Month. A time of year where this sweet red fruit is in season. You can find strawberries in many recipes from smoothies to pies, to preserves to salads.
A fun outdoor activity with family can include visiting a pick-your-own farm to enjoy fresh-picked strawberries and create tasty memories at home.
Resource: Clemson Cooperative Extension
Why Bees Matter: Celebrating World Bee Day
from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
In 2018, the United Nations declared May 20 as World Bee Day to underscore the essential role bees play in maintaining the health of our planet.
Nature's ultimate pollinators, bees are irreplaceable players in our ecosystem. They enable plants to reproduce, ensuring the growth of crops that feed billions around the globe. Without their tireless work, our food systems and natural landscapes would crumble, negatively impacting human health, animal life, and the entire planet. By pollinating diverse plant species, bees also promote biodiversity, a fundamental step towards sustaining a balanced and resilient environment.
Despite their significance, bees and other pollinators are facing severe threats. Habitat loss and unsustainable farming practices have further intensified their predicament, leading to the decline in the number of bees.
This year's theme is "Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all,” highlighting the critical role bees and other pollinators play in agrifood systems and the health of our planet's ecosystems. Their decline jeopardizes food production, increases costs and exacerbates food insecurity, particularly for rural communities.
Is there any action you can take to protect the more than 200,000 species of pollinators worldwide—butterflies, birds, bats and more than 20,000 bee species? Absolutely. You can start by sharing knowledge. Let others know about the importance of bees and the current threats they face.
Next, consider turning your garden or patio into a sanctuary for bees by planting local native plants, avoiding chemical pesticides, providing clean water, and leaving areas of your yard undisturbed for nesting habitats.
To learn more about pollinators and the roles they play, visit out Putnam Pollinator Pathway page.
Visit FAO for more information.
DEC Offers Tips to Keep Bears Out of Neighborhoods
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton reminds New Yorkers to remove or secure outdoor food sources that may attract black bears. Throughout the spring and early summer months, black bears will search extensively for easily obtainable, calorie-dense foods, which can lead to an increase in the potential for human-bear conflicts near homes and residential areas.
“Across New York State, black bears are emerging from their winter dens looking for something good to eat, including human-created sources like bird feeders, grills, and pet food,” Lefton said. “Repeated access to these food sources can make bears bolder, so DEC encourages New Yorkers to practice the BearWise basics to help keep bears wild and prevent the potential for human-bear conflicts.”
DEC advises New Yorkers to reduce the potential for human-bear conflicts to protect bears and themselves by practicing these BearWise basics:
- Empty feeders and clean spilled seed and let nature feed the birds from spring through fall.
- Secure or store garbage and recycling cans in a sturdy building.
- Clean and remove residual grease and food from grills and smokers.
- Keep pets and livestock food indoors; those with chicken coops or apiaries should consider installing an electric fence to protect flocks and hives.
Lastly, neighbors should alert neighbors to any bear activity so they can take these same precautions.
New Yorkers are advised to never feed or approach bears. Feeding bears intentionally is dangerous and illegal. Bears that become habituated to being fed can become a threat to people and property.
Last monht, DEC hosted the 26th Eastern Black Bear Workshop, a biannual meeting of bear managers, researchers, and biologists from across North America that facilitates information sharing and collaboration to address the challenges facing bear conservation and management. In 1972, DEC hosted the first workshop. At the time, there were only approximately 2,000 to 3,000 black bears in New York. DEC estimates there are currently approximately 8,000 bears in New York. This conservation success story demonstrates the effectiveness of DEC’s science-based approach to black bear management in New York State. The knowledge and experiences shared at these workshops is invaluable to improving black bear management in New York.
By taking time to practice the BearWise basics, removing any unnatural food attractants and encouraging neighbors to do the same, New Yorkers are helping keep bears away from people, homes, and neighborhoods, and that helps keep bears healthy, wild, and safe
For more information on how to live responsibly with black bears, visit Bearwise.org.
CLICK HERE and become a part of our Crowdfunding efforts to help reach our goal of $750K!
-
MGV Guided Hikes 2025
Saturday, May 31
9:30 AM - 3:00 PM -
Ask a Master Gardener @ the Cold Spring Farmers' Market
Saturday, June 14
8:30 AM - 1:00 PM -
MGV Guided Hikes 2025
Saturday, June 21
9:30 AM - 2:30 PM -
Ask a Master Gardener @ the Cold Spring Farmers' Market
Saturday, July 12
8:30 AM - 1:00 PM -
MGV Guided Hikes 2025
Saturday, July 19
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Tidbits
CCE Putnam Honored by Patterson Rotary
Patterson Rotary Club honored local “Hunger Heroes” during Men Who Cook 2025 event in April. The honorees were Cornell Cooperative Extension Putnam County, Putnam CAP, Second Chance Foods, Patterson Community Church Food Bank and Gather Round the Table. The event, held in memory of Michael Ingber, brings the community together to share dishes from local restaurants and neighbors while raising funds to support nonprofit organizations in Putnam County.
MGV at Manitou School Event
Master Gardener Volunteer Jim Lynch set up a display explaining vermicomposting at the recent Manitou School Earth Day event. CCE Master Gardener Volunteers have participated in several Earth Day events recently. Their knowledge and willingness to give so much time to others is priceless!
Farmers Gather for Marketing Workshop in Putnam County
by Ruby Koch-Fienberg, Ag & Food Systems Coordinator
On March 27th, CCE Putnam hosted a digital marketing workshop for farmers, featuring live Spanish translation for the first time. This new offering made the session accessible to more community members and highlighted CCE Putnam’s dedication to supporting all local producers.
Led by Uliana Ahashkova, Agricultural Economic Development Specialist from CCE Ulster, the workshop focused on practical ways farmers can reach more customers online. Participants learned how to identify their ideal audience, build a strong brand, and use websites and social media to boost their farm’s visibility. The session also covered cost-effective promotional strategies to help farmers grow their businesses without breaking the bank.
The addition of Spanish translation made the workshop especially impactful, ensuring that language was not a barrier to learning these valuable skills. As more farmers embrace digital marketing, CCE Putnam’s commitment to accessible education will help local agriculture thrive in a competitive market. This event was made possible thanks to our New York Food for New York Families grant.
At a glance ...
2025 Orange County 4-H Calf & Livestock Sale
Saturday, May 10, 5-9PM
Education Center & 4-H Park, Otisville
Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County's 27th Annual Orange County 4-H Calf & Livestock Sale provides a great opportunity for local dairy and livestock farmers, homesteaders, agricultural businesses, and those interested in agriculture to get together, converse, and promote their agricultural businesses and practices.
For more information, visit Cornell Cooperative Extension 2025 Orange County 4-H Calf & Livestock Sale
Hudson Valley Regional Agritourism Networking Session
Thursday, May 15, 1-4PM
Clover Brooke Farm, Hyde Park
Are you a farmer curious about opening your farm to visitors? Or perhaps you’re already offering agritourism experiences and want to grow your reach and impact?
The Cornell Cooperative Extension Agritourism Program Work Team, in partnership with CCE Dutchess, Orange, and Ulster Counties, invites you to a hands-on educational and networking session designed to support the growth of agritourism across the Hudson Valley.
Held at Clover Brooke Farm—a working farm known for its llama, alpaca, donkey, and goat programs—participants will gain practical insight into creating safe, engaging, and marketable farm experiences for visitors. Topics include animal care, customer service, visitor safety, and strategies for agritourism promotion.
There will be presentations from agritourism and tourism leaders and an interactive panel with Q&A Session.
Fee: $10, and includes light refreshments, the full program, and the farm tour.
Register HERE.
2025 Ulster County Agroforestry Field Day Series
Thursday, May 15, 3-5PM
Thursday, June 5, 4-6PM
Thursday, Oct. 23, 3-5PM
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.
Fee: $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.
Learn more HERE.
Register HERE.
First Friday Webinars
Each month at New York State Integrated Pest Management's "What's Bugging You? First Friday" events , experts share practical information and answer questions on using integrated pest management to avoid pest problems and promote a healthy environment where you live, work, learn and play.
May 2, 12 p.m.: Spongy moth caterpillar management | Feeding Friendly Insects: Plan to prep your soil
In NY, spongy moth caterpillars start showing up in May. You'll learn why there are more caterpillars in some years than in others, and why you should manage them when they are still small. Also, make a plan to spend the summer preparing to plant wildflowers that feed friendly insects.
Learn more HERE.
Register HERE.
CCE Westchester: Home Gardening Webinar Series and Tour
The 2025 Home Gardening Lecture Series comprises webinars on Flowering Native Shrubs, Gardening in Small Spaces, and Shade Gardening. Also offered is a private garden tour of Hart's Brook Park and Preserve in Hartsdale, NY. Please note that garden tour spots fill quickly!
Session 5: Shade Gardening
Wednesday, May 14, 10-11 a.m.
Donna
Lassiter will showcase many of her favorite native species, their
benefits for the environment and cultural needs for growing them with
success. Learn the principles of shade gardening and selection of shade
tolerant plants.
Fee: $5 per session
Learn more HERE
Register HERE
Public Health Works to Prevent Lead Poisoning in Putnam
from Putnam County Department of Health
Lead poisoning is a serious health problem, especially for children. Springtime home renovations can disturb old, covered-up lead paint and increase the risk for poisoning. That is why Putnam County Department of Health staff from all divisions team up to advise residents how to take precautions when home improvements are planned and to make other good choices year-round to avoid this preventable health problem.
“Lead is toxic to all people, regardless of their age or health status,” Public Health Director Rian Rodriguez, MPH, who assumed leadership of the department at the end of March, said. “There is no safe amount of lead in anyone’s blood. We are most concerned about children because their developing brains can more easily absorb lead. They also are most likely to put their hands in their mouths, after picking up lead dust from the floor. This can result in lifetime impacts, with slowed growth, learning and behavioral issues, hearing and speech problems, and lowered intelligence—all resulting from damage to the brain and nervous system.”
Preventing lead poisoning is one of the indispensable roles that the health department plays.
“If renovations to a living space are planned, it is best to hire a lead-safe contractor, trained and certified in lead-safe work practices,” said Brian Stevens, associate public health sanitarian in the environmental health services division. “These guidelines are from the Environmental Protection Agency and are certainly the safest way to do renovations or remodeling. However, for do-it-yourselfers with smaller projects, the EPA does also provide some online guidance,” continued Mr. Stevens. Smaller amounts of lead dust can also be generated if a lead-painted window or door frame has excessive friction, even in normal use.
Drinking water in a home can also cause lead poisoning if it becomes contaminated by running through plumbing with lead present. Most homeowners in Putnam County have their own private wells and are responsible for checking the make-up of their water and maintaining their own plumbing systems. Homeowners on community water systems rely on their water operators to ensure safe water.
Older homes in certain areas, especially where housing was built before the 1978 lead paint ban, are at greater risk. While lead dust from the chipping and peeling of such lead-based paints is the most common source of lead exposure, numerous other avenues for lead poisoning exist.
Additional Resources:
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Protect Your family from Sources of Lead
Centers for Disease Control (CDC): About Lead in Jobs, Hobbies, or Other Activities