About Us

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Welcome to Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County!

Since 1913, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County (CCEDC) has responded to the needs of local residents with unbiased, research-based information, tools and education that people have come to depend on and trust. Our programs are developed in direct response to community input, and are based on the most current information available from Cornell and other Land Grant universities from across the nation.

The mission of Cooperative Extension is to put knowledge to work in pursuit of economic vitality, ecological sustainability and social well-being. We bring local experience and research based solutions together, helping New York State families and communities thrive in our rapidly changing world. Extension staff and trained volunteers deliver education programs, conduct applied research, and encourage community collaborations. Our educators connect people with the information they need on topics such as commercial and consumer agriculture; nutrition and health; youth and families; finances; energy efficiency; economic and community development; and sustainable natural resources. Our ability to match university resources with community needs helps us play a vital role in the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout Dutchess County.

CCEDC is a subordinate governmental agency with an educational mission that operates under a form of organization and administration approved by Cornell University as agent for the State of New York. It is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university Cornell administers the system in this state. Each Cornell Cooperative Extension association is an independent employer that is governed by an elected Board of Directors with general oversight from Cornell. All associations work to meet the needs of the counties in which they are located as well as state and national goals. 

We have an extensive system for getting input from diverse interests in the community, and we welcome your ideas and involvement in our efforts. If you are interested in how CCEDC sets policies and program priorities, or if you'd like more information on how to get involved, please call (845) 677-8223.

110th Annual Meeting of Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County 2023

109th Annual Meeting of Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County 2022

Last updated March 7, 2024