Capitol News

Michigan State University (MSU) has initiated two significant infrastructure projects aimed at advancing agricultural research and food production in Michigan. Construction has begun on a new Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center, alongside major renovations to the Plant Science Greenhouses.

The developments are set to enhance research opportunities for MSU scientists across various colleges, including Agriculture and Natural Resources, Natural Science, and Veterinary Medicine. This effort is partly funded by $53 million from the State of Michigan and has received bipartisan support from the state's agricultural community.

During the groundbreaking ceremonies held on April 11 and 12, MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz emphasized the importance of these facilities in supporting agricultural partners with cutting-edge knowledge and developing future leaders in dairy industry and plant science. He expressed gratitude to the Legislature and governor for their support.

MSU Chair Dan Kelly highlighted the collaborative nature of these projects, stating they unite stakeholders across multiple sectors to advance sustainability in plant science practices and high-quality dairy production.

The new Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center will expand its current capacity by increasing herd size from 250 to 680 cattle. The $75 million project will include modernized barns, feed centers, milking parlors, laboratories, and student instruction spaces. Kelly Millenbah, dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, noted that this facility will serve as a testament to partnerships that benefit Michigan's farmers and workforce development.

Doug Freeman, interim dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, pointed out that advancements in dairy industry practices necessitate such expansions for enhanced training capabilities in dairy production medicine.

Renovations to MSU’s Plant Science Greenhouses will cater to 70 faculty members and 600 students involved in research within Agriculture and Natural Resources as well as Natural Science colleges. The $35 million project includes environmental controls aligned with external climate conditions along with energy-efficient LED lighting systems. A new headhouse providing administrative space is also part of this upgrade.

Phillip Duxbury, dean of the College of Natural Science, underscored MSU's leadership role in plant sciences research which addresses climate change impacts along with emerging diseases. He acknowledged support from political leaders for facilitating these upgrades essential for maintaining innovation within agriculture.