Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension (MARE) Center

Situated at the heart of Virginia's horse country, the Middleburg Agricultural Research and Extension (MARE) Center plays a critical role in the discovery, outreach and education missions of Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Philanthropist Paul Mellon donated the 420-acre farm to Virginia Tech in 1949 to foster research aimed at improving pasture and animal productivity while enhancing the land. The center was used mainly for beef cattle research for 40 years, but was re-dedicated to equine research and teaching in 1992. Equine dentistry and foal handling demonstrations will occur at 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Hay rides to tour the farm will be given periodically throughout the day.