Replacement of more than six miles of fencing is underway at the Fort Hays State University Farm. Addressing the need for new fencing is a project FHSU is glad to be working on this summer. According to Harland Werth, manager of FHSU’s crop division, it is likely that current fencing has been in place since the 1960s or early 1970s.  

The university farm began operating in 1908 and, during its early days, served as an income source to supplement the college budget, supply grain for dairy, hog, and poultry projects, and provide food for students and staff. Today, the 3,825-acre farm gives agriculture students hands-on experience in crop, beef, swine, and sheep divisions as students pursue their degree programs. 

J and C Fencing is undertaking the new fencing project, estimated to be completed by Aug. 15 at a cost of $112,000. 

More projects are in the works for the University Farm in the future. Next year, Werth anticipates another five miles of fence will be constructed. Other improvements include the construction of new classrooms in the Reigel Beef unit, slated to begin this fall.