Michigan State University has opened the doors to its new $75-million Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center—a modern facility set to transform dairy education, research, and sustainability efforts across Michigan and beyond.
Located on MSU’s south campus, the new 165,000-square-foot center replaces the university’s aging 1960s-era dairy farm. It now serves as a cutting-edge hub for training students, conducting industry-informed research, and developing practical solutions for today’s dairy producers.
Modernizing Dairy Education and Research
With space to house more than 600 cows, the upgraded facility provides hands-on learning opportunities for students in MSU’s Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Dairy Management Program. The new center is equipped to replicate the technologies and workflows found on today’s commercial dairy farms, helping students build real-world skills in animal care, herd management, and farm operations.
The facility will also support a wide range of applied research—focused on improving animal health, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and welfare—driven by input from Michigan dairy producers.
Investing in Industry Needs
The $75-million project was made possible by a $30-million investment from the State of Michigan, with additional funding from alumni, donors, and agricultural stakeholders. The goal: build a facility that supports the state’s dairy sector, which contributes $15.7 billion to Michigan’s economy and ranks first in the U.S. for milk production per cow.
The new center allows MSU researchers to better address industry priorities, such as improving productivity, reducing environmental impact, and supporting long-term farm profitability.
Showcasing Sustainability with Circular Agriculture
A key feature of the facility is its integration with MSU’s Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center. Together, these facilities will operate using a circular model—turning manure and waste into renewable fertilizer, water, and energy. This closed-loop system helps reduce emissions, lower costs, and promote environmentally responsible farming practices.
The center also positions MSU to lead in developing scalable sustainability solutions for dairy farms of all sizes.
A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity
During a July 17 open house, more than 250 guests toured the facility. Industry representatives, legislators, alumni, and students saw firsthand how the new center is designed to meet the future needs of agriculture.
Michigan State Rep. Jerry Neyer, chair of the House Agricultural Committee, called the project a smart investment in Michigan’s top agricultural sector. Stakeholders across the dairy supply chain echoed the sentiment—recognizing the facility as a rare opportunity to upgrade infrastructure and support the next generation of dairy professionals.
Looking to the Future
As operations ramp up this fall, MSU’s Dairy Teaching and Research Center is set to become a national model for modern, sustainable dairy farming. It will strengthen partnerships across academia, industry, and government while serving as a vital resource for producers facing evolving challenges.
By combining innovative research, real-world training, and a commitment to environmental responsibility, the facility underscores MSU’s leadership in advancing agriculture—both in Michigan and around the world.
