Extension & Outreach

Generating new knowledge to make a positive impact on society

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering sees as its responsibility the full range of scholarship from generation of new knowledge to assuring its positive impact on society. This responsibility rests not only with the department collectively but with every faculty member. We have found the most effective approach to optimizing this positive impact on society is to work on interdisciplinary projects and programs that include both research and extension (and in some cases undergraduate teaching).

We also rely heavily on faculty working closely with extension educators with backgrounds in engineering and technology to deliver new technologies and information to clients. Increasingly, our extension programs are not directed to farmers or in some cases even local extension agents working with farmers but rather public and private groups whose efforts impact farmers and other citizens.

In addition, we are investing more time and energy in regional and national sharing of new information. All these efforts will serve not just to build the extension efforts of the department, but will also enhance the ongoing research and teaching programs.

Cornell Local Roads Program

The New York State LTAP Center–Cornell Local Roads Program provides unbiased, timely and exceptional technical assistance and training to highway and public works departments across the state to help improve the quality and safety of roads and streets. We support local communities through strong collaborations with partners that enhance the sustainability of local highway assets.

It is one of 52 centers established under the Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) of the Federal Highway Administration.

Visit the Cornell Local Roads Program

Tools in a tool shed — Tools of the trade line the garage at the town of Sherburne Highway Department. Photo by Lindsay France/Cornell University

Water Resources Institute

Advancing water resource management and addressing critical water resource problems in New York state and beyond. We leverage our unique access to scientific and technical resources at Cornell and with our partners to:

Conduct and support research on emerging water resource issues.
Connect water resource researchers to managers and policymakers.
Inspire and educate the next generation of water resource scientists and professionals.
Improve communication among educators, managers and policymakers by identifying, developing and providing resources.
Promote water literacy with the general public.

Visit the Water Resources Institute

A class stands along the edge of a stream in a wooded area of trees with green leaves and buds.