Ag Climate Resiliency
Harvest NY's Ag Climate Resiliency program aims to mitigate the impact of climate change on New York's farms through education, adaptation of production practices, and preparation for extreme weather events. Additionally, the team emphasizes the important role farms play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration. Key practices include use of cover crops, agroforestry, rotational grazing, water management, manure management, and nitrogen-use efficiency. Webinar Recordings: 2023 Hudson Valley Farming Series
Jenna Walczak, Ag Climate Resiliency Specialist
Harvest New York
The 2023 Hudson Valley Farming Series: Farming in a Changing Climate included six webinars with speakers presenting on carbon and nitrogen cycling in agriculture, financial and technical assistance for ag climate projects, biochar and soil amendments, rotational grazing, practical climate risk management, and climate battery greenhouses.
Factsheet: Greenhouse Gases and Soil Organic Carbon in Vegetable Production
Zach Spangler, Ag Climate Resiliency Specialist
Harvest New York
The intersection of agricultural production and greenhouse gases is gathering increasing attention. This is an opportune time to consider how vegetable production interacts with carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions, and how using cover crops may alter this picture.
The factsheet, Greenhouse Gases and Soil Organic Carbon in Vegetable Production and the Role of Cover Crops, discusses:
- Sequestration of atmospheric carbon in agricultural soils as soil organic carbon (SOC). Is vegetable production impacting SOC?
- Net greenhouse gas emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4) from the soil.
- Impact of cover crops on soil organic carbon, nitrous oxide emissions, and other GHG emissions.
Upcoming Events
Water Retention & Nutrient Cycling in Urban Gardens
April 26, 2025
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Bronx, NY
Join us for this very exciting hands-on workshop! We will be adapting and applying sustainable agricultural methods to our urban garden context. Designed for community gardeners and urban growers, we are focusing on accessible, functional methods that make it easier for us to have bountiful harvests while our climate becomes hotter, drier and more unpredictable.Crafted for all levels of gardeners from beginner to advanced!
Unlocking Opportunities in Farm to School Producer Training
May 5 - May 7, 2025
Monday May 5, 12-1:00pm & Wednesday May 7, 6-7:00pm
Join us for two targeted online trainings designed to help producers, distributors, manufacturers, and growers tap into the school food market and expand their reach. Whether you're just starting or already selling to schools, the Harvest NY Team will guide you through the necessary steps to grow your presence in the school food market. Each training will be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, but anyone is welcome to attend either session based on interests and business goals.
Training Dates & Times
- Monday, May 5th, 12:00 - 1:00 PM - For Value-Added Producers, Distributors, and Manufacturers
- Wednesday, May 7th, 6:00 - 7:00 PM - For Growers, Producers, and Farmers
Announcements
Community Gardens Soil Testing Program Accepting Applications
Soil testing supports the growth and expansion of community gardens by protecting the health and safety of the food produced in these gardens. CCE Harvest NY, in partnership with the NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets (AGM) and the Cornell Soil Health Lab, is offering eligible, food-producing gardens in New York State the opportunity to send soil samples for testing without charge.The soil test will analyze samples for heavy metals and nutrient levels. Test results help gardeners make appropriate plans to produce high quality fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Technical support and education for participating growers will be provided by the CCE Harvest New York team. Learn more about the 2025 Community Gardens Soil Testing Program.