BINGHAMTON, NY (607NewsNow) – Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Broome County is getting a boost from the state.

On August 11, State Senator Lea Webb delivered $50,000 in funding to the group through the State Senate’s Community Resilience, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) Program.

The money will support work at Cutler Botanic Garden, which is a 5-acre teaching garden that plays a crucial role in promoting horticultural education and environmental awareness.

“I am proud to deliver this $50,000 to help them make upgrades to Cutler Botanic Garden,” said Webb. “This garden is free and open year-round for residents to appreciate the beauty of our natural world and learn about our environment. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County uses the garden as an outdoor classroom for hands-on workshops where students and adults study plants, animals, and composting. CCE Broome County is an invaluable resource to our community, and I am excited for the great work they will do in the years to come.”

CCE officials say the funding will help the group acquire new benches, educational signage, and weather-resistant picnic tables, as well as rebuild vegetable beds and fencing, and install better drainage.

“Culter Botanic Garden has been a free, year-round resource for our community for decades, maintained almost entirely through the dedication of Cornell Cooperative Extension Broome County Master Gardener volunteers,” said CCE Broome County Executive Director Beth Roberts. “This funding allows us to address long-standing needs, including replacing worn benches and fencing and improving drainage throughout the garden.”

Learn more from State Senator Lea Webb’s Office here.