In a rapidly evolving world, strengthening connections between the work done in Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) program areas across the state and the related research conducted at Cornell University has never been more crucial.

This episode of Extension Out Loud is the first in a series introducing the purpose and potential impact of Critical Issue Leads. As defined by Andy Turner, director of CCE and associate dean in both the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and Cornell Human Ecology, these campus appointments will function as central leaders and liaisons, cultivating guidance and vision while connecting diverse program areas.

Featured in this episode is David Kay, senior extension associate in the Department of Global Development and newly appointed Critical Issue Lead for Sustainable Energy and Climate Change at Cornell Cooperative Extension. Kay highlights the contributions of CCE in addressing climate challenges, and the importance of dialogue-driven approaches to foster understanding and action.

Across multiple departments and over 45 years at Cornell, Kay’s research and outreach focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and innovative strategies that integrate climate action with education. In addition to his work on campus, Kay chairs the City of Ithaca’s Sustainability and Climate Justice Commission and the National Extension Climate Initiative.

A cornerstone of Kay’s approach is effective communication. He believes that while the science of climate change is robust, real engagement comes from understanding community priorities and equipping people with knowledge to make informed decisions. By embedding climate change insights into diverse educational disciplines—ranging from agriculture to nutrition—CCE underscores its relevance across societal sectors.

“If I want to be a good educator and communicate with someone, I'm going to find out what they care about the most and figure out what resources can I bring to the table that would help them make informed decisions.” - David Kay

Programs like agrivoltaics, which integrate solar energy with agriculture, highlight the collaborative potential of research and community-based education. These initiatives bridge the gap between campus innovation and local application, reinforcing CCE’s mission to empower communities. Looking ahead, Kay envisions expanding such programs to strengthen positive collaboration between research, education, and local engagement.

Kay’s vision highlights the importance of informed, community-centric strategies in addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change. According to Kay combining research, dialogue, and education, will ensure that CCE continues to drive impactful change, fostering resilient and empowered communities in the face of climate challenges.

The Joro spider, an arachnid that's been in the United States for years in some southern states, has been trending in the news lately as the next potentially invasive species to land in New York State. Some media hypes giant, venomous, flying spiders, but how concerned should we really be here in New York about their potential arrival?

To address these questions Alejandro Calixto, Director of the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program at Cornell University joins this episode of Cornell Cooperative Extension’s ‘Extension Out Loud’ podcast. Calixto discusses the myths surrounding the Joro spider and the impacts of a changing climate on the spread of invasives. While large and venomous like many spiders, the Joro spider does not pose a direct threat to humans.

"Every spider has venom, but their venom is primarily for capturing prey and defense, not for attacking humans," said Calixto.

One common misconception Calixto addresses is the idea of Joro spiders flying into homes or attacking pets. While they can disperse using a technique called ballooning—where they release silk strands to catch the wind and travel—they do not have wings or parachutes and are not aggressive towards humans or pets.

Calixto highlights concerns about the Joro spider potentially outcompeting native species like the golden silk weaver in habitats where they overlap. However, their slow dispersal rate means any effects would likely be gradual and localized.

Focusing on more immediate concerns for New Yorkers, Calixto mentions the rise of pests like the spotted lanternfly and the increased activity of ticks due to milder winters. These changes underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive pest management strategies to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture and public health.

To learn more about the Joro Spider and other invasive pests in New York State visit the NYS Integrated Pest Management website.