Closing of the western parking lot entrance in Acra.

Attention visitors of the Agroforestry Resource Center in Acra. We are closing off the western entrance to the our parking lot. A gravel berm will be installed to block off access at this point. The parking lot will still have access from the eastern entrance on Route 23 and from the entrance located on Joseph Chadderdon.

This change will close down a dangerous turn, allow us to open up new areas on the property for programming, and allow more parking for larger events like Maple Fest.

Thank you New York State Department of Transportation and the Town of Cairo Highway Department for your help with this project.

Paul and Maria Morra Scholarship Trust 2026

The purpose of this scholarship trust is to honor the lives of Paul and Maria Morra (trust benefactors) and their commitment to preserving the natural resources of our region.

Complete application packet must be received by Monday, May 11, 2026. Scholarship selection is not based solelyon academic standing but greater emphasis is placed on the interest and motivation of the student to excel in their chosen field of study. Recipients are chosen by a selection committee whose recommendations are approved by the CCE Board of Directors and their decision is final. This year we anticipate two scholarships to be awarded for $3,500 each. The scholarship check will be sent directly to the academic institution upon receipt of a copy of the student’s tuition bill and college mailing address.

Download the 2026 Paul and Maria Morra Scholarship Application. 

Gardening Questions

The Master Gardener Volunteers are available to answer your calls at 518-828-3346 x212. Please leave a detailed message, or reach us anytime by emailing [email protected]. Photographs are helpful.

We offer soil pH testing for $5.00 for the first sample ($1 for each additional sample). For more comprehensive analysis, contact the Cornell Soil Health Lab. Turnaround time for pH testing can be up to two weeks due to volunteer availability. For more information go to our Soil Sample page.

For plant and insect identification, you may bring samples to our office. There is a $5.00 charge per sample. Samples must be in a container (such as a bag or jar)—we cannot accept loose samples on paper towels.

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Donations

Please support the programs of CCE of Columbia and Greene Counties by  donating to us. 

Consider signing up for monthly donations. $5 a month can go a long way with CCE!

Last updated April 14, 2026