New Mexico State University’s Corona Range and Livestock Research Center will highlight three years of research, along with an update of a newly constructed wind farm near the center, at this year’s field day Nov. 3.
The field day will begin with a reception at 10 a.m., followed by a keynote address, poster session and an update of the wind farm from Jeremy Turner, New Mexico director of operations for Pattern Energy.
In September 2017, the center joined in Pattern Energy’s endeavor to build a wind farm in the Corona area through a public/private partnership. Construction in the Corona area started in November 2020, with major construction on the CRLRC beginning early spring 2021. The CRLRC is based in the NMSU College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.
Once construction is complete, the CRLRC will have 39 turbines installed on ranch property, along with two turbines on state trust land leased for grazing. Ultimately, Pattern Energy’s Western Spirit Transmission area project will consist of 377 turbines, or a total of 1,050 megawatts.
Income generated from the life of the wind farm will enhance the center’s mission to provide research and outreach to New Mexico clientele.
“The field day will highlight research and outreach over the last three years or so, with non-formal presentation of posters by the ones who have conducted the research,” said Shad Cox, CRLRC superintendent. “The interaction between our stakeholders and scientists benefits development of future research projects, as well as helping clarify the take-home message for the stakeholder.”
Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet with the center’s scientists and graduate students to discuss a variety of research projects, including livestock, rangelands and dryland restoration research.
Masks are required for those who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine and for all persons indoors. For more information and directions on how to get to the center, visit https://aces.nmsu.edu/aes/corona/.
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CUTLINE: New Mexico State University’s Corona Range and Livestock Research Center will highlight three years of research, along with an update of a newly constructed wind farm near the center, at this year’s field day Nov. 3. (NMSU photo)
Group of people standing in front of a large wind turbine