Faces of Extension: Anya Stansell

Growing up, my grandparents nurtured a beautiful garden, and we often went foraging together. This instilled in me an appreciation for plants and their value in our lives. The stories connected to plants were always emphasized in my upbringing, and it clicked for me during a horticulture class that one could build a career around this passion. While I enjoyed my work with animals during my studies, I found a deeper connection to plant-based work, which feels less taxing on the soul.

I was inspired to delve into berry production during my master’s program at Cornell, particularly while working with Dr. Marvin Pritts. He engaged me directly with berry growers, allowing me to cultivate my own strawberry field. This hands-on experience helped me understand the intricacies of farming, from harvesting fruit to sourcing materials and managing unexpected challenges each growing season. Working with Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) has further deepened my appreciation for the diverse aspects required for a successful farming operation, including crop choices, location, team dynamics, marketing strategies, and adherence to safety and profitability guidelines.

One of the most fascinating aspects of my work in Extension is witnessing how plants respond to unpredictable weather patterns due to climate change. Each year brings new challenges and surprises; for instance, blueberries this season produced numerous flower buds but few leaves, leading to quirky branch growth. The plants are struggling to allocate energy effectively, which results in unusual characteristics. These instances showcase the intricate relationship between plants and their environment and underscore the importance of diversifying crops to mitigate risks, a practice that is quite common among New York farmers.

Beyond my primary role of assisting farmers in growing berries sustainably, I focus on cultivating unusual crops like pawpaws and honeyberries. I believe that diversification can be a significant asset in agriculture. I'm also investigating soil-borne diseases and testing biological, sustainable products that could reduce reliance on conventional pesticides. My goal is to improve plant health and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural future.

One of my favorite places in New York is the High Tor natural management area, which offers incredible biodiversity and seasonal variety. I remember climbing to the top of a hill there during a warm spring day, surrounded by the sounds of frogs and the sight of salamanders. 

As for plants, I find aquatic and bog plants particularly captivating, as they adapt and thrive in submerged environments. Watching seaweeds and duckweeds flourish is fascinating, showcasing the resilience of life in diverse ecosystems.