OSU-OKC dedicates new Agriculture Resource Center

Saturday, March 8, 2008

OSU-Oklahoma City will host the grand opening of its new Agriculture Resource Center on March 11 at 10 a.m. The ceremony begins in the nearby Horticulture Pavilion, on the campus at 400 N. Portland Ave. The event will allow the public to tour the facility and learn more about OSU-OKC’s veterinary technology and horticulture degree programs.

“This much anticipated occasion will celebrate the dedication and vision of those who have donated, planned and constructed the ARC,” said OSU-OKC President Jerry Carroll.

The Agriculture Resource Center’s conservatory is a living laboratory that will soon display a variety of plants carefully cultivated by horticulture students and faculty. At night the conservatory is brightly lit making a glowing addition to the Oklahoma City’s skyline.

Each room is designed to maximize student learning experiences. Most of the first floor consists of animal x-ray labs, surgical and exam rooms, kennels and a large animal clinic with a non-slip floor. The second floor houses floral design labs, a floral refrigerator and lecture rooms.  A second floor balcony overlooking the large animal clinic allows students to observe without exciting the animals.

The new building will add 33,000 square feet to the existing John E. Kirkpatrick Horticulture Center, allowing the entire Agriculture Division to be under one roof. OSU-OKC anticipates increased enrollment in agriculture programs as a response to the new resources.