Committee hears staff reports on watershed projects and new Seed to Supper program

Committee staff delivered routine program updates on March 5, reporting progress on watershed stabilization work, grants, and a new community horticulture class.

Scott (staff) said the permit for the Friendship School project was approved and that staff are preparing paperwork and estimates for stabilization work. He reported that at the previous board meeting three projects were approved using Finger Lakes‑Lake Ontario watershed funding; the projects target three beef farms in the towns referenced as Independence, West Allman, and Rushford and involve grant closeouts and construction planning. Scott said nine applications were submitted in the most recent grant round and that weather is the primary factor delaying construction start.

Laura (staff) summarized outreach and education. She said the Rural Landowners Workshop, held the previous weekend at Pioneer School, drew attendees from Niagara, Erie and other parts of Western New York and that attendance was near the event’s record for its 32‑year run. Laura introduced Seed to Supper, a new five‑week program taught by Christian Acosta that combines in‑person and online instruction; she said 24 people had signed up and the course begins March 13. Laura said the program covers soil testing, seed starting, transplant timing and harvesting; staff noted some hands‑on elements may be distributed or done via pickup.

Board members asked a few clarifying questions about schedule and delivery; one committee member described the Seed to Supper program as an important resource for rural residents who sell produce at farmers markets. Scott also noted plans to remove trees and address high‑water impacts on Kanakadea Creek upstream from Alfred as part of permitting and stabilization work.

These items were presented as informational reports; no formal committee action was taken on the program updates during the meeting.