Dairy Science and Sanitation Workshop

May 15 - May 16, 2018


The Dairy Science and Sanitation Workshop is tailored to dairy processing personnel and is designed to help participants understand the basic principles of dairy science and safety, as well as emphasize dairy processing establishment needs related to dairy sanitation to ensure that proper programs are conducted in their establishments.

The course consists of online lecture sessions that will cover basic dairy science, including composition of milk, dairy microbiology, and dairy food safety, as well as an overview of dairy regulations. Participants will also learn in hands-on sessions the basics of cleaning and sanitizing principles, unit operations -- both raw milk production and receiving, and dairy processing, plant equipment and design, general control of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, in depth information on cleaning and sanitizing chemicals, their properties and applications, and a discussion on CIP and COP systems and common errors seen in the industry. The course also provides hands-on sessions where both CIP and COP principles will be applied. 

Instruction is provided by Anika Zuber, Dairy Processing Specialist with CCE Harvest NY, and Omar Oyarzabal, Extension Associate Professor, Food Safety Specialist, University of Vermont. 

$725 registration fee. Registrations must be received by May 8 and the course is limited to the first 15 registrants.

Maximizing Your Garden Space

May 9, 2026
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Port Jefferson Station, NY

Celebrate spring and get your garden growing with this hands-on workshop on maximizing your garden space! Join Cornell Urban Garden Specialist Karen Guzman as she shares practical strategies to maximize limited space. Participants will learn about the current state-wide soil testing program and crop planning techniques designed to increase yields and extend the growing season.

Webinar: Impact of Microclimates on NYC Urban Ag

May 13, 2026
12:00 noon - 1:00 PM

Hear from Dan Olmstead of Cornell IPM on how NYC's microclimates differ from Borough to Borough and their impact on resilience planning. We will also be discussing the data collected from weather stations across urban gardens in the city.

Webinar: Biochar Applications on Urban Farms

June 10, 2026
12:00 noon - 1:00 PM

Hear from Deborah Aller, Cornell, about biochar applications on urban farms and its ability to act as a tool for soil health and climate mitigation. We will also be discussing the mission behind New York Center for Organics Recycling and Education (NYCORE).

Community Garden Leadership Program - Application Open Now!

The Cornell Community Garden Leadership Program is a year-long online program that prepares individuals to enhance their leadership skills to strengthen community gardens throughout New York State. The program equips community gardeners with management best practices and operational skills to improve garden sustainability. The program also connects gardeners to regional resources, professional development opportunities, and a statewide community garden leadership network.

Register for a virtual information session to learn more about the program and discover if this program is the right fit for you. Each information session is typically 45min-1hr.

Session Dates: 

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 available from the CCE Harvest New York team. Learn more about the 2026 Community Gardens Soil Testing Program.