Chemung Cornell Cooperative Extension starts environmental program

Elmira, New York – Elmira is going to see a new project that attempts to make the neighborhood greener.

The Elmira Urban Green Equity (EUGE) project is being started by the Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) in Chemung County. The mission of EUGE is to reduce the negative environmental consequences of the city and increase the Elmira region’s resilience to the effects of climate change. Elmira is more susceptible than other communities to the consequences of climate change, according to the CCE, and EUGE will seek to address this climate inequality.

The CCE intends to use community engagement, education, and other instruments through EUGE to carry out green projects in the Elmira region. According to the CCE, EUGE’s upcoming projects will enhance neighborhood green spaces, reduce climate threats, and raise well-being throughout the Southern Tier.

“EUGE is a great project that allows our community to work together to maximize our green spaces and resilience to climate hazards,” said Chemung CCE Executive Director Michelle Podolec. “I’m excited to see the ideas that emerge from the community discussions.”

In collaboration with the Chemung County Environmental Management Council (EMC) and the Chemung County Planning Department, the Chemung CCE launched EUGE. A Hazard Mitigation Grant spanning three years is provided to EUGE by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

The towns most at risk from climate change will get this funding, which was granted in the spring of 2023.