Director of New Bastian Agricultural Center Named
By Julene Reese | January 25, 2022
Josh Dallin, Utah State University Extension assistant professor of agriculture and range in Box Elder County, has been named director of the newly announced Bastian Agricultural Center. He will take on his new role on February 1, overseeing renovations at what was formerly known as the Salt Lake County Equestrian Park.
The center will continue to host equestrian events and community gatherings while also incorporating a STEM center, natural resources experiences, livestock and animal production, and plant production and education.
"I am honored and grateful for this incredible opportunity," Dallin expressed. "I look forward to realizing the vision of the Bastian family. I am excited for all of the possibilities this exceptional agricultural center will afford to so many."
Ken White, USU Extension vice president, emphasized the importance of ensuring a smooth transition for the Salt Lake community and confirming USU Extension's commitment to converting the facility into the BAC. He selected Dallin due to his necessary skills and talents to serve as director.
"To help with this transition, it was critical to identify someone with the needed skills and talents to serve as director," White stated. "I am excited about the energy and commitment Josh brings to this assignment. He will work closely with the USU Extension office in Salt Lake County, current Salt Lake Equestrian Park employees, and Salt Lake County to ensure that the BAC meets the continuing and emerging needs of the Salt Lake County communities."
White offered his appreciation for the Bastian family's generous donation of $41.25 million—USU's largest single donation in history—to honor and preserve Utah's agricultural heritage.
"The Bastian family has a proud history of farming the land in the Salt Lake Valley for more than 75 years," he noted. "Our hope is that the new facility will serve as a fitting tribute to their agricultural legacy by not only providing education and experiences, but also a sense of community for those who visit. I am confident Josh will be a tremendous asset in making that happen."
For more information about the Bastian Agricultural Center, visit bastianagriculturalcenter.usu.edu. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].