Historic Dairy Barns May Be Put Out To Pasture

Iowa State University's first dairy barn, built in 1907, is one of several historic barns on ISU's former teaching farms with a question mark in its future. The preservation of many of the campus barns is up for review, while other agricultural structures, considered to be in poor condition, have been recommended for demolition by ISU officials. The 20th century barns are viewed by many as an important part of the state and university's agricultural heritage. Historic barns have been preserved and converted for a variety of alternate uses in other parts of the country. Iowa State officials recognize the historical significance of the barns and will consider ways to reuse the structures for teaching or research.