The WTAMU Herdsmen are moving forward with plans to create a new buffalo habitat for WT’s mascot, Thunder X.

The 40 by 60 foot metal building will rest on 15 acres of land located on Valley View Road, northeast of the First United Bank Center and south of the Stanley Schaeffer Agriculture Education Learning Lab.

According to a WT press release, Herdsmen adviser and chief of the University Police Department Shawn Burns said that the habitat has been a gradual process.“We have been in the process of trying to get a land commitment and get a permanent home for the buffalo for several years now,” said Burns. “I think it’s fantastic that we’re going to be able to build a habitat reflective of our mascot’s position as the symbol of our University.”The $150,000 project will contain a holding pen, a training pen, a meeting room and shelter large enough for two buffaloes.

Herdsman Chuck Waltrip expressed his excitement for the new habitat.

“How exciting!  It’s about time,” said Waltrip. “Let’s get that thing up already!”

The goal is to finish the habitat through financial donations and active fundraising by the Herdsmen’s 35th anniversary this fall.

Freshman education major Kelsey Ansley supports the fundraising for Thunder X.

“Fundraising would be a good idea for him,” said Ansley. “He’s always been there to support the Buffs, so we should give money to help support him and his new home.”

To learn more about Thunder X’s new home or making donations, go to wtamu.edu/herdsmen.