College of Western Idaho opens agricultural sciences complex

The 40-acre facility on the Nampa campus blends innovative space with sustainable design.
Sept. 15, 2025
2 min read

Key Highlights

  • The complex features 40 acres of outdoor space and 38,000 square feet of instructional facilities.
  • It supports over 20 courses in fields such as horticulture, floral science, landscape design and animal science.
  • The complex aims to strengthen regional agriculture and provide students with hands-on, modern learning experiences.

College of Western Idaho has officially opened its new Agricultural Sciences Complex and Simplot Agriculture Building on the Nampa Campus.

The college says the facility blends 40 acres and 38,000 square feet of innovative instructional space with sustainable design to create a modern hub for hands-on education and research. 

The design of the complex ensures that every classroom and lab is infused with natural light. Students will embrace learning in a modern environment that blends indoor and outdoor learning.   

The space also includes a student-designed arboretum that will serve as an educational and community resource. It is the first registered arboretum in the city of Nampa. 

“The Agricultural Sciences Complex is a shining example of what happens when a community invests in education,” said Mike Peña, President of the CWI Foundation Board. “This facility will not only transform the lives of students but also strengthen the agricultural industry that is so vital to our region."

Classes in the Complex began in August; more than 20 courses are being offered this fall. The classroom and lab space supports training in horticulture, landscape design, floral science and animal science. 

The Agricultural Sciences Complex, along with the recently opened Health and Science Building  and the CapEd Student Success Center that will open in fall 2026, demonstrates the college's continued commitment to expanding educational access.

About the Author

Mike Kennedy

Senior Editor

Mike Kennedy has been writing about education for American School & University since 1999. He also has reported on schools and other topics for The Chicago Tribune, The Kansas City Star, The Kansas City Times and City News Bureau of Chicago. He is a graduate of Michigan State University.

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