Daniela Vergara

Emerging Crops Specialist

Cornell AgriTech
Geneva, NY

cell 812-219-0172
email Daniela

Areas of Interest
hemp, hops, new crops to NYS

Daniela is a native of Colombia, attending Universidad de los Andes Bogota and then obtaining her Ph.D. at Indiana University - Bloomington. She has extensive experience in teaching and research, mainly in genetics and breeding programs, and numerous relationships as a consultant with bioscience and agribusiness firms in the western United States.

For Harvest NY, Daniela is located on the Cornell AgriTech campus in Geneva to collaborate on work being done in hemp, hops and other crops.

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 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.