By Blake Jackson
Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) has named longtime extension educator and vegetable specialist Judson Reid as its new assistant director for agriculture and food systems.
In his new statewide leadership position, Reid will oversee the CCE Regional Agriculture Teams under the guidance of Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Associate Dean and CCE Director Andy Turner. He succeeds Peter Landre, who retired in July.
Reid will lead a statewide network of 10 regional teams representing more than 100 Cornell specialists. These teams support New York’s agricultural industries, including dairy, livestock, field crops, commercial horticulture, vegetables, fruit, viticulture, urban agriculture, and farm-to-institution initiatives.
By working closely with farmers and Cornell researchers, they deliver applied research, on-farm problem solving, and business management support to strengthen the state’s agricultural economy.
A graduate of CALS, Reid currently serves as CCE’s statewide Critical Issue Lead for agriculture and food systems programming. He also leads the Harvest New York economic development initiative, which promotes local food systems, urban agriculture, community gardens, emerging crops, and climate resilience across the state.
Reid began his extension career in Yates County, where he worked directly with local growers and gained valuable experience in county-level agricultural outreach. He later earned a master’s degree in plant protection with a focus on plant pathology before joining the Cornell Vegetable Program as an Extension Vegetable Specialist.
Throughout his career, Reid has become widely recognized for his expertise in greenhouse production, season-extension methods, small-farm operations, and vegetable production while supporting New York’s expanding produce auction network.
Reid extensive experience at the county, regional, and statewide levels makes him well prepared to strengthen collaboration between Cornell researchers and agricultural communities.
“We are thrilled to have Judson Reid step into the Assistant Director for Food Systems role. Judson brings decades of extension experience, a collaborative leadership style, and an unwavering commitment to New York agriculture," said Turner.
"His ability to connect Cornell's research with the needs of farmers and communities across the state will strengthen our Regional Agriculture Teams and help Cornell Cooperative Extension continue delivering meaningful impact throughout New York.”
Photo Credit: cornell-cooperative-extension
Categories: New York, Business, Education