Texas Tech University System Expands Research Horizons at 3 Rivers Ranch

CROWELL, Texas – The Texas Tech University System (TTU System) recently celebrated the acquisition of the expansive 3 Rivers Ranch, a move that promises to enhance research and educational prospects in Foard County.

The vast landscape of 3 Rivers Ranch, newly acquired by the TTU System.

In a significant gesture, the 6,000-acre ranch was gifted to the Texas Tech University System by Dr. Fred Koch alongside the 3 Rivers Foundation for the Arts and Sciences. This gesture not only reflects philanthropy but also a commitment to community development and education.

“The 3 Rivers Foundation could have given this property to anybody or sold it and taken the money, but what distinguished the Texas Tech University System from every other reasonable alternative was their dedication to serving this region,” said Don Malone, an attorney for the foundation.

Investing in Rural Communities
TTU Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the ranch serves as a crucial asset to the rural communities it envelops.

“We have to take care of the people in rural Texas who take care of all the people of this region, state, and, to a large extent, the people of this nation and even beyond our borders. A piece of property like this is indeed a wonderful community asset for everybody, and we fully intend to ensure that, moving forward, we continue this tradition and do more for the communities we serve in this area.”

The acquisition sets the stage for exciting research possibilities that involve all five universities of the TTU System. Faculty members are eager to begin initiatives focusing on a wide range of fields including agriculture, STEM disciplines, astronomy, and medicine. This interdisciplinary approach will likely yield significant advancements and innovations.

The future of research at the TTU System starts here.

Future Projects and Collaborations
During the community luncheon held to commemorate the occasion, excitement was palpable among the attendees, particularly regarding the ongoing and upcoming research projects envisioned for the ranch.

TTU System Board of Regents Vice Chairwoman Ginger Kerrick Davis expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “When this partnership opportunity between the TTU System and 3 Rivers Ranch was first brought up, there was a scream of excitement. I just can’t wait to see what’s going to happen here.”

This enthusiasm is shared by the local community, who look forward to not only educational benefits but also the enhancement of local economic conditions through potential partnerships and events.

The TTU System’s commitment to leveraging this resource for the betterment of local and regional communities showcases a holistic approach to education and research that is increasingly essential in today’s interconnected world.

Conclusion
Overall, the acquisition of 3 Rivers Ranch marks a pivotal moment for the Texas Tech University System. With the promise of advancing research and providing valuable educational experiences, it paves the way for significant societal contributions that extend far beyond Foard County. As the plans unfold, both the university and the community are set to achieve great things together.

For more information on the Texas Tech University System, visit Texas Tech University or learn more about the ranch at 3 Rivers Ranch.