Cornell Recommendations for U-Pick Operational Changes due to COVID-19
Esther Kibbe, WNY Berry Specialist
Harvest New York
April 29, 2020

Many growers who allow customers to come and pick their own vegetables and fruits have been concerned about how that will work in this time of social distancing and closed businesses. At this time, the state has not prohibited U-Pick or on-farm sales. Cornell has just released a document outlining best practices and ideas for growers who choose to allow the public on their farms.
Topics include:
- Alternatives to U-Pick
- Communicating with Customers
- Check-in Process and Picking Containers
- Planning for Physical Distancing while Picking
- Weighing Produce and Handling Payments
- Cleaning and Sanitizing Surfaces
- Protecting Employees and Family Members when Interacting with the Public
Read the Best Management Practices for U-Pick Farms During the COVID-19 Pandemic If you have any questions, contact Esther Kibbe.
Upcoming Events
Pruning & Fruit Tree Health 101
December 13, 2025
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Cambria Heights, NY
Join us at Cambria Heights Community Garden for a free, hands-on workshop with CCE Harvest NY Urban Garden Specialist Karen Guzman. Participants will learn about basic tree maintenance and pruning techniques. Proper winter care helps trees conserve energy, prevent damage from cold weather, and prepare for growth in the spring. Whole Farm Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Planning (CAMP) Series
January 13 - February 12, 2026
Jan 13, Jan 29: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Feb 12: 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Kingston, NY
Join CCE Ulster and CCE Harvest New York for a three-part workshop series focused on building climate resilience on your farm. We will cover climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, learn how to access relevant historical climate data, and begin a climate adaptation plan for your farm!January 13 (Tues): 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
January 29 (Thurs): 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
February 12 (Thurs): 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
