The R.G. White Large Animal Research Station (LARS) has a broad mission to support research, education, and outreach involving Alaskan animals. We support the interests and activities of UAF scientists but we also serve scientists from other institutions and organizations in the United States and from around the world. LARS is a 130 acre facility on Yankovich Road currently housing muskoxen and reindeer but is also periodically home to other large animals. We are located on a former homestead established by Mike Yankovich in 1923. Mike turned the farm over to the University in 1963 and we had our first muskoxen arrive in 1964.
Our animals are maintained for a wide variety of research and educational projects involving reproduction, nutrition, energetics, and behavior. The research station's herds are valuable for fundamental biological research, in the validation of research planned for non-captive populations, and in teaching for biology/wildlife and vetmed students. There is also interest in further evaluating and developing the use of reindeer in Alaskan agriculture.
Our news and events
Saturday, September 12 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Come celebrate the end of the summer season with muskoxen, reindeer, and wood bison while supporting your community! The entrance fee to this event is 3 non-perishable food items, which will be donated to the Fairbanks Community Food Bank. Animals will be on display and tour guides will be available to share information and answer questions. The LARS gift shop will be open for shopping. Food trucks on site. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.