Cattle to Roam on New 250-Acre Property
Arkansas Tech University's cattle will soon have a new home thanks to a signed agreement with the Duffield family of Russellville. The 30-year agreement provides Arkansas Tech with access to 250 acres of pasture land on the south side of Russellville at no cost. The property is anticipated to be ready for the university's cattle by spring 2027.
“Our family has a long history with Arkansas Tech,” stated Luke Duffield. “This was an opportunity to give back to a university and a community that has been so good to our family over the years.”
While some cattle will be moved to the new location, the ATU farm on the north side of campus will continue to house the majority of cattle necessary for student learning. Cattle will be rotated regularly between the farm and the new property.
On-campus agricultural facilities, including the ATU Greenhouses, Dr. James “Jim” Collins Agriculture Classroom, Farm Credit Agriculture Building, and spaces for cattle and swine handling, will remain the core of hands-on learning for ATU's agriculture students.
Arkansas Tech seeks to develop the property it owns on the east side of North Arkansas Avenue for commercial purposes, aiming to generate additional revenue to keep tuition affordable. The new cattle property is a strategic step towards this goal, potentially offering restaurant and retail options for students, faculty, staff, and the local community.
For more information about Arkansas Tech's agriculture program, visit www.atu.edu/agriculture.