How many apple varieties exist? Why do we need so many? Come visit the USDA Apple, Grape, and Tart Cherry collections at Cornell AgriTech to find out!
The USDA Plant Genetic Resources Unit maintains thousands of unique trees and vines for conservation and research. On Saturday, September 19, 2026 we will host our annual tour at the McCarthy Farm, 2865 County Road 6 (Preemption Road), Geneva, NY, 14456 (across from St. Mary’s Cemetery).
Learn about the value of crop diversity and enjoy a walking tour of the collections from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Please arrive on time. No reservation needed.
** Bring a bag for apples and grapes to bring home. **
Contact Ben Gutierrez at ben.gutierrez@usda.gov or 315-614-9917 for more information.
https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/geneva-ny/plant-genetic-resources-unit-pgru/docs/publictours-apple/
It was a beautiful sunny and comfortably cool summer morning as hundreds of people gathered to learn about the USDA Plant Genetic Resources Unit in Geneva, NY.
Looking east from parking area
Ben prepares apple table
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| Must have been about 200 people |
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pollinator tents |
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| Grapes a plenty! |
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| grape table |