Faces of Extension: Lindsey Pashow

Lindsey Pashow, ag business development and marketing specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension's (CCE) Harvest New York team is focused on ensuring economic viability for New York farms. Guided by a desire to see successful, sustainable farms and communities, Pashow believes that farming should not only provide a livelihood but also create the conditions for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

I grew up in 4-H participating in county fair, Career Explorations, Capital Day, and Citizenship Washington Focus So, I knew what 4-H was from a kid's point of view. I didn't realize there were all these other things that extension had to offer, and all these wonderful programs and jobs that were available.

My original degree was from SUNY Plattsburgh in business marketing with a minor in accounting. I received my master's degree in administration, leadership. I started out working at SUNY Plattsburgh in the study abroad office and got another degree in expeditionary studies, outdoor recreation.

My parents were Master Gardeners, and my dad was volunteering at the Cornell University E.V. Baker Agricultural Research Farm, working on the development of cold hardy grapes. And I thought, “Oh, wouldn't it be cool to start a winery one day?” My dad suggested I volunteer at the research farm and learn from the Extension experts there, to develop an understanding of what that involved.

I began as a volunteer, supporting grape research for two seasons at the Baker Farm. Kevin Iungerman, who led the research facility, encouraged me to become his technician. I later worked with Amy Ivy (CCE Clinton/Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Program) and Elson Shields (retired Cornell Faculty), gaining hands-on experience with grapes, beneficial nematodes, and agricultural research projects. This foundation has been invaluable in my current role, where I work on harvest projects and collaborate with teams beyond my primary focus area.

In 2016 I started working for Harvest New York. During the first year, I was tasked with organizing a meeting for the plain communities in Franklin County to explore developing a Produce Auction in Northern New York. At that point, I knew little about the plain communities in our region and felt unprepared for this task. Fortunately, I had strong support from Extension, especially Harvest New York team leader Jud Reid, who helped me learn about plain communities. There was also a farmer in Clinton County, Melissa Monty-Provost from Country Dreams Farms, who provided valuable insights, especially a female perspective on working with the Amish. Without this guidance, I would have been lost.

Building these relationships with the plain communities, particularly through the St. Lawrence Valley Produce Auction, has been one of the most impactful parts of my role. I appreciate their values and the sense of community they bring, which has deepened my understanding of diverse agricultural perspectives. Learning to listen versus speaking all the time is key to building connections.

My work is not just about sharing knowledge. Ensuring that farms can be economically stable and thrive is key to building successful, sustainable farms and communities. I've worked hard to develop resources, including fact sheets and webinars, to support farmers in achieving long-term success.

Farming should be a livelihood and provide enough to allow folks to enjoy life. That's my biggest goal — helping people grow and thrive.

I own and operate Adirondack View Lavender, an agritourism farm in Keeseville, N.Y. Balancing my role as a single mother to two young boys, my job at Extension, and managing the farm has taught me valuable lessons in time management and business sustainability.