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Ag and animal science building approved for next level

Ag and animal science building approved for next level

aerial photo of CWC equine center
CWC's current Equine Center

Last year the Wyoming Community College Commission endorsed Level II funding and the state Legislature approved the funding for a new agriculture and animal science facility. Level II allowed Central Wyoming College to hire an architect to design the facility; a process that is near completion.

“We are working on finalizing the conceptual drawings for the facility,” said Ron Granger, vice president for administrative services.

In February, the college received approval for Level III funding for the new agriculture and animal science facility. Level III funding is the construction phase of the project however this process will not begin until CWC raises the money which is to be matched by the State Match Funds. CWC has a two-year timeline to raise those funds. A maximum amount of $10.5 million has been approved; CWC must raise $5.25 million.

The Foundation is currently undergoing a feasibility study which is the initial step taken to start a capital campaign. This study will determine potential success of the campaign.

“The feasibility study is evaluating Fremont and Hot Springs County,” said Becky Ruthenbeck, foundation director. “The results of the study will determine the strategy we need to take to move forward with the capital campaign.”

Once completed, the new facility will include two indoor areas, two outdoor arenas, mobile stands, parking, locker rooms, classrooms and offices. The new building will also provide the adequate barns, pens and stalls needed for livestock along with a farrier room and up-to-date technology for the offices and classrooms. The stands will have a capacity of about 300 people and will be able to be moved to be used in the various arenas.

This will give us the opportunity for different equine classes, training for rodeos and the ability to have multiple events going on at one time. ”

Excitement from students, employees and the community is bubbling up in anticipation for the new facility.

“This will allow all of the animal, equine programs to grow,” said Jennifer Cole, assistant professor of equine studies. “It will also allow us to be more flexible in scheduling and what we can offer to students and the community. The potential for this facility is endless and we haven’t even scratched the surface on what we can do collegiately or for the community.”

The possibility of hosting a Certified Horsemanship Association International Conference is also within the spectrum once the facility is built. Cole who is a CHA master riding instructor has ties with the association and said they have had a positive reaction to the potential of CWC hosting the conference.

“This will be great for recruitment for CWC,” Cole said.

The feasibility study should be complete in the near feature and the college will determine fundraising campaigns once it is finalized.