WOODBURY — The equine science program has been a pillar in the agriscience program for many years. Being the only agriscience program in the state with full-size horses sets the Woodbury FFA chapter apart. This year’s newest upgrade was the opening of the new Elizabeth Webb Equine Facility. This facility has many new upgrades from the old barn to benefit the program as well as the horses. 

“The biggest benefit of being able to use the new equine facility is the space that it provides us for lab practicum,” said equine science teacher Marisa Bedron. “This space has also enhanced safety.”

Labs and safety are incredibly important features to the equine program’s success. Bedron said another benefit of having more space is the ability to repurpose the old barn. 

“The plan for the old barn is to become the new livestock facility,” said Bedron, “[as well as] to provide a central location for ag production animals.” 

The upgrade of the equine facility is benefiting the agricultural program as a whole, not just equine science. This upgrade is enhancing the excellence of Woodbury’s agriscience program.  

Samantha Kostka, a senior, has taken on the role of completing chores in the morning in the new horse barn as well as the old barn. She feels that the new barn has its ups and downs but overall enjoys being able to work in the new area.

“[The new barn] is nice because there is a lot of room to move around and for the horses,” said Kostka. “I have to move from the upper horse barn to the lower barn to feed the goats and then down to the pastures. It’s all about time management to make sure I get everything done in time.”