In this episode of Extension Out Loud, Cornell Cooperative Extension specialist Crystal Stewart Courtens shares her journey from Extension newcomer to regional garlic specialist. Crystal discusses her farmer-centered approach to agricultural science, the challenges of researching a crop that rarely produces viable seeds, and how mentors taught her that excellent Extension work requires both scientific rigor and authentic human connection.

In this episode of Extension Out Loud, Mario Miranda Sazo, fruit extension specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension's (CCE) Lake Ontario Fruit Program, shares how advanced technology and agricultural techniques are revolutionizing apple orchards.

The digitalization of orchard management is transforming farming practices. Advanced drone technology now enables farmers to create precise blossom density maps. These maps provide crucial data on bloom levels, helping growers identify which trees are flourishing and which need additional care.

By leveraging drones, precision crop management, and advanced grafting techniques, CCE specialists and Cornell researchers are helping New York's apple industry improve yields, enhance fruit quality, and promote orchard sustainability.

In a rapidly evolving world, strengthening connections between the work done in Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) program areas across the state and the related research conducted at Cornell University has never been more crucial.

This episode of Extension Out Loud is the first in a series introducing the purpose and potential impact of Critical Issue Leads. As defined by Andy Turner, director of CCE and associate dean in both the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and Cornell Human Ecology, these campus appointments will function as central leaders and liaisons, cultivating guidance and vision while connecting diverse program areas.

Featured in this episode is David Kay, senior extension associate in the Department of Global Development and newly appointed Critical Issue Lead for Sustainable Energy and Climate Change at Cornell Cooperative Extension. Kay highlights the contributions of CCE in addressing climate challenges, and the importance of dialogue-driven approaches to foster understanding and action.

Across multiple departments and over 45 years at Cornell, Kay's research and outreach focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and innovative strategies that integrate climate action with education. In addition to his work on campus, Kay chairs the City of Ithaca's Sustainability and Climate Justice Commission and the National Extension Climate Initiative.

A cornerstone of Kay's approach is effective communication. He believes that while the science of climate change is robust, real engagement comes from understanding community priorities and equipping people with knowledge to make informed decisions. By embedding climate change insights into diverse educational disciplines—ranging from agriculture to nutrition—CCE underscores its relevance across societal sectors.

"If I want to be a good educator and communicate with someone, I'm going to find out what they care about the most and figure out what resources can I bring to the table that would help them make informed decisions." - David Kay

Programs like agrivoltaics, which integrate solar energy with agriculture, highlight the collaborative potential of research and community-based education. These initiatives bridge the gap between campus innovation and local application, reinforcing CCE's mission to empower communities. Looking ahead, Kay envisions expanding such programs to strengthen positive collaboration between research, education, and local engagement.

Kay's vision highlights the importance of informed, community-centric strategies in addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change. According to Kay combining research, dialogue, and education, will ensure that CCE continues to drive impactful change, fostering resilient and empowered communities in the face of climate challenges.