Long Island Horticultural Research and Extension Center (LIHREC)

Two researchers looking at plants in a greenhouse

About LIHREC

The 68-acre facility is dedicated to serve the research and extension needs of the horticulture industries of Long Island. The facility features agricultural fields and research plots, state-of-the-art greenhouses, a nursery and container production area, and a plant tissue culture facility in support of research projects ranging from grape and vegetable production, to ornamentals and floriculture.

LIHREC is located close to the tip of Long Island, in the heart of Suffolk County. Unique growing conditions on Long Island provide exceptional opportunities for this region. The climate is ideal for farming — it is the only area in New York State with USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 7. Strong underground aquifers provide plenty of fresh water.

But the reputation of Suffolk County's agriculture is literally rooted in its characteristic white, sandy soils. 

Sandy, white soils

Suffolk County's exceptional soils are the result of thousands of years of glacial deposition. They have excellent drainage, moderate water-holding capacity, and modest fertility. These glacial soils are among the finest in the world and provide unique opportunities for farmers and growers.

Yellow squash blossoms grow amongst a field of squash plants.

LIHREC in the News

Three people, holding awards, standing in front of the sign for the Center
SOAR awardees from left to right: Margaret McGrath, Emeritus Associate Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science, CALS; Daniel Gilrein, Senior Entomologist, and Andrew Senesac, Senior Weed Scientist, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Suffolk County

Three research and extension professionals received SOAR Awards while working at LIHREC.

The SOAR Award honors those, who provide outstanding support and contributions to the mission of the national IR-4 Project, a program that helps specialty crop growers to address pest management concerns. 

The awardees, pictured above from left to right:

Dr. Margaret McGrath, Emeritus Associate Professor, School of Integrative Plant Science at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Meg received her award in 2014. Meg retired from Cornell University in May 2023, but still maintains a keen interest in all things concerned with plant pathology.

Daniel Gilrein, Senior Entomologist, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Suffolk Co. Dan received the award in 2023.

Dr. Andrew Senesac, Senior Weed Scientist, Cornell CCE of Suffolk Co. Andy received his award in 2016. Although Andy retired from full time employment in 2022, he continues to work part-time to help fill the weed science needs of Long Island until a replacement is hired.

Awardees are selected based on: the service provided towards the mission by participating on IR-4 committees, advisory panels, or similar activities; the excellent outreach performed to help educate others about IR-4’s importance to growers; their altruism by donating time and effort toward IR-4’s mission; and the outstanding research contributed that aides in expanding product labels and increasing understanding of product use.

Serving the community for over 100 years

Established in 1922, this pioneering research facility continues to serve the diverse agricultural community on Long Island. In this video, Director Mark Bridgen and Cornell scientists explain how research there supports fruit and vegetable growers and the floriculture and nursery industry with the latest production information, such as ecologically sound pest and disease management, and sustainable growing practices.

LIHREC's history
Play 100th Anniversary of the Long Island Horticultural Research and Extension Center

Resources for Cornell Researchers

Find detailed information for each Cornell AES research farm. Cornell login is required.

Resources for Cornell Researchers
Fruit, vegetables, flowers, trees, specialty crops

Contact

Address

Long Island Horticultural Research & Extension Center (LIHREC)
3059 Sound Ave.
Riverhead, NY 11901

P: 631-727-3595
F: 631-727-3611

View map for directions
Mounds of colorful flowers

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