Construction should begin soon on a new greenhouse at the Agriculture Center on Interstate 45. The 40' by 60' structure will contain the most modern features available with a total construction cost of over $100,000. Additionally, a new polycarbonate roof was put on one of the existing greenhouses at the Horticulture Center this past summer.

     The department recently received word that funds have been set aside for additional construction and remodeling at the Agriculture Center. Additional demolition work will remove old concrete pads and the milking parlor, making way for a new demonstration gardening area. The gardens will be designed by students in landscaping courses with a goal of greatly enhancing the utility and appearance of the Center. Plans will be drawn up soon for a new Plant and Soil Science Laboratory and a new Headhouse (storage and potting shop) to go along with the new greenhouse, with each to have immediate access to the greenhouse. Current plans are to convert the existing Horticulture Center into a botanical garden area.

     The Plant and Soil Science Lab will be built on the site of the old feed mixing facility, once the slab has been doubled in size. The estimated cost of the new lab is $467,000 while the headhouse is estimated at $40,000. Additional demolition work will remove the older, non-functional structures from the Agriculture Center. We are thankful for the support of the Dean's Council and other campus administrative officers for these projects.