December 2022 Storm Damage Survey
December 2022 Storm Damage Survey
To help public officials understand the extent of storm event damage and guide efforts to be better prepared for future storm events, Cornell Cooperative Extension - Erie is once again collecting storm damage reports for damage to agricultural infrastructure, equipment, livestock, stored crops, or winter produce associated with the December 2022 blizzard.
Reporting survey: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9AytO5D9oYvRCXc
Alternatively, you can scan this QR Code with your phone or tablet to complete the short survey.

Federal disaster declarations are in place for both the November and December events. We also recommend that you contact the local Farm Service Agency office (in Erie County: 716-652-1400) about damage to your operation. This may be an important step if or when federal assistance becomes available, most likely in the form of low-interest disaster recovery loans.
We hope you are on your way to recovering from these extreme events. We know farming is hard work with inherent risks. Still, back-to-back extreme winter storm events are more than most of us are ever prepared to deal with. Please accept our sincere condolences if your farm was among the local operations that suffered damage during one or both recent events. And don't hesitate to contact us if we can be of assistance at this time. John Whitney is available to enter damage survey information on your behalf if that's helpful. (jrw44@cornell.edu). John's cell phone is 716-796-3204. Lauren Wight in the Erie County Farm Service Agency office can also help enter information for you.
Farming can be stressful even without extreme storm events. We want to remind you that if you are feeling unusual levels of stress at any time, you might want to reach out to NY Farmnet. NY FarmNet is always free and confidential, phone 1-800-547-3276.
Upcoming Events
Planning For Immigration Enforcement At Your Farm
May 20, 2025
Ramped-up immigration enforcement is spreading fear and resulting in family and workforce disruptions across the farm landscape. Farms and employees should take action by making a plan for what to do in case of an immigration enforcement action at your farm. Planning is critical to avoid the worst outcomes. Learn about available resources and hear from the experience of crisis support leaders!
Chainsaw Safety & Forestry BMP's
June 13, 2025
Belmont, NY
Perfect for beginners or experienced users needing a refresher. We'll cover safety features and basic maintenance of the modern saw and learn kickback prevention techniques. Participants will be able to try on various PPE and learn ergonomic practices. Interested participants will learn to safely start up, throttle up, and turn off a saw. You may bring our own saw if you choose, there will be no cutting in this class.
FAMACHA Workshop at Alfred State College
June 14, 2025 : FAMACHA Workshop at Alfred State College
Alfred, NY
Join Cornell Cooperative Extension for a morning of classroom learning, hands-on FAMACHA and 5 Point Check practice, and a pasture walk at Alfred State College's teaching farm to learn about putting IPM to work on pasture using evasive grazing techniques. An exam will be provided, and students passing the exam will receive program certification, including a FAMACHA Card.