That will mean more wind-related coursework and research for MSU students and a demonstration turbine on campus. Montana is one of the first six states in the country to receive federal funding for a wind applications center. The other states included in the first round of funding are Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota.

The wind applications center contract, which was awarded in April, provides the university with $40,000 a year for three years. MSU will begin offering wind-related coursework this fall with an alternative energy applications course. Other classes will follow in the coming semesters.