Raven Precision Agriculture Center

The Raven Precision Agriculture Center at South Dakota State University (SDSU) stands as a cutting-edge facility where agronomy, engineering, and computer science converge under one roof. Designed for collaboration and innovation, this 130,000-square-foot center is a hub for research, education, and hands-on learning, preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Gage Brothers’ Contribution and Collaborative Design

Gage Brothers played an integral role in both the design and construction of the Raven Precision Agriculture Center. Working closely with the architect, Shawn Crowley of EAPC, and the general contractor, Taylor Brenner of McCownGordon, this project exemplified the importance of early collaboration. One of the key successes of this project was ensuring the specification of brick prior to job bidding, which streamlined the process and maintained the design integrity.

This project is a prime example of the seamless integration of Endicott Brick, demonstrating how thin-brick can perfectly match face-brick, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across the building. The precast insulated thin-brick wall panels contribute to the building’s thermal efficiency and durability, while the robust interior solid precast walls in the high-bay area provide the necessary structural strength to support the facility’s specialized functions.

A Center for Innovation and Collaboration

The Raven Precision Agriculture Center is more than just a building; it’s a state-of-the-art ecosystem designed to foster collaboration among students, faculty, and industry leaders. With over 35,000 square feet of wet laboratories and 26,000 square feet of industrial research space, the center is equipped to support cutting-edge research and teaching. Specialized spaces like the dynamometer bay, fabrication bay, bio-processing suite, and quarter-scale tractor lab ensure that students have access to the latest tools and technologies in precision agriculture.

Classrooms, conference rooms, and casual study areas are strategically placed throughout the building to maximize interaction and collaboration. This design approach ensures that knowledge exchange and innovation are at the forefront of the educational experience at SDSU.

Sustainability and Modern Design

In line with SDSU’s commitment to sustainability, the Raven Precision Agriculture Center incorporates numerous environmentally friendly features. The building has earned a LEED Silver certification, thanks to its energy-efficient design elements such as a 50-kilowatt photovoltaic array, white reflective roofing, and an exhaust heat recovery system. These features not only reduce the environmental impact but also contribute to the long-term operational efficiency of the facility.

Impact on the Community and Beyond

The Raven Precision Agriculture Center is poised to have a lasting impact on the local community, the state of South Dakota, and the broader field of agriculture. As the home of the nation’s first Bachelor of Science in Precision Agriculture, this facility will help shape the future of farming through the development of innovative technologies and sustainable practices. Students trained in this center will be uniquely prepared to address the challenges of modern agriculture, ensuring that SDSU remains at the forefront of this vital industry.

By bringing together disciplines and fostering collaboration, the Raven Precision Agriculture Center is not just a building—it’s a symbol of SDSU’s dedication to advancing agriculture through education, research, and innovation.