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New PRO-LIVESTOCK team at Cornell

Supporting farms, local food systems and climate resilience in New York State

Cornell CALS Department of Animal Science has created a statewide PRO-LIVESTOCK team of extension specialists who will support NY livestock farms, strengthen the food system and enhance environmental sustainability practices.

Livestock farms are an important resource, producing a local, nutrient-dense protein for consumers that has worldwide demand, while also serving a critical role to develop carbon-sequestering management practices and provide ecological benefits on millions of acres of farmland. But over 85 percent of NY livestock farmers stated in Securing the future of the New York state livestock industry report, developed from a Cornell Small Farms Livestock Summit, that they need more science-based production guidance and market development to expand their businesses.

“Empowering livestock farmers with science-driven solutions is essential to building a resilient, sustainable, and thriving food system, said Benjamin Houlton, the Ronald P. Lynch Dean of Cornell CALS. “The launch of PRO-LIVESTOCK reflects our college’s deep commitment to serving all sectors of New York agriculture—notably our fast-growing livestock sector—with the same excellence that has defined PRO-DAIRY for decades. This is more than a program; it’s a promise to our farmers, our environment, and our future.”

The PRO-LIVESTOCK team mirrors Cornell CALS PRO-DAIRY, a nationally recognized extension and applied research leader serving dairy farms for more than 35 years, housed through the Cornell Department of Animal Science. The newly formed PRO-LIVESTOCK team will develop and implement programs statewide and conduct applied research in collaboration with Cornell faculty and Cornell Cooperative Extension educators. 

• PRO-LIVESTOCK news release