MORRISVILLE, NY- Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County (CCE Madison) has been awarded funding through the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets 2025 Urban Farms and Community Gardens Program. This grant will support a comprehensive
new effort to build a strong and connected network of community gardens throughout
Madison County.
The initiative will provide direct support to gardens through onsite assessments, hands-
on training, and compost to improve soil health and increase production. The project
will also help gardens expand their role in local food access by offering education and
support designed to increase fresh produce donations to local food pantries.
“Community gardens are meaningful spaces for growing food and cultivating
collaboration,” said Julie Poplaski, Environment & Gardens Subject Educator at CCE
Madison. “By investing in these shared spaces, we’re investing in food access,
resilience, and the wellbeing of our county.”
In addition to training and technical assistance, eligible gardens will be able to apply for
sub-awards to support site improvements or expansion of growing space. These
investments will help boost production, improve community engagement, and support
ongoing success.
The Urban Farms and Community Gardens Program is a statewide initiative created to
support gardens and urban agriculture projects that enhance food security, increase
local food production, and promote community resilience. Through this funding, CCE
Madison will begin working with interested local gardens in the 2026 growing season to
identify needs, deliver support, and foster collaboration across the county.
Community Gardens interested in participating in the program are encouraged to
complete a short interest form at: https://tinyurl.com/GardenSupport
About Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County:
Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County has been fostering economic vitality,
ecological sustainability, and social well-being since 1917. By combining local
experience with Cornell research, CCE delivers practical resources and educational
programs to support sustainable agriculture, youth empowerment, and thriving
communities. Engaging with residents to meet evolving needs, CCE has positively
impacted agriculture, environment, health, and community development for over 105
years.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for providing
equal program and employment opportunities in accordance with applicable laws.
