By Andi Anderson
Michigan dairy leaders are encouraging producers to support the new Michigan State University Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center, a modern facility designed to strengthen dairy research, education, and innovation for years to come.
The Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), a dairy farmer-owned cooperative and processor, is helping promote producer-led fundraising efforts for the center. Founded at Michigan State University in 1916, MMPA has maintained a strong connection with the university while serving dairy farmers across Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
One of the strongest supporters of the project has been Doug Chapin, Chairman of the MMPA Board of Directors. Chapin operates Chapin Family Farms in Mecosta County, Michigan, with his son, Sam. He played a key role in advocating for state funding to support construction of the facility, which officially opened in July 2025.
The new center represents a major investment in the future of the dairy industry. Built at a cost of $75 million, the facility houses nearly 700 cattle, more than three times the size of the previous herd. The center provides researchers, educators, and students with access to advanced technology and modern production systems.
Features of the facility include robotic milking systems, advanced feed management centers, specialized calf barns, and modern milking parlors. It is also connected with the MSU Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center, creating opportunities for research focused on transforming agricultural waste into valuable products and sustainable solutions.
The project received significant support from the State of Michigan. With assistance from Chapin, MMPA, and other agricultural leaders, Michigan State University secured $30 million in state funding in 2022, which helped launch the construction process.
Explaining the industry's support for the project, Doug Chapin, Chairman of the MMPA Board of Directors, said, “We have a very unique situation in Michigan with our relationships with producers, MSU and the Michigan Legislature.”
He further added, “One of the biggest reasons we were supportive of the investment was that we all saw it was time to update those facilities. When the window of opportunity came to get some state funds to get it kicked off, it was important for the industry to step up and say, ‘Let’s go for it.’ And it was great to see that all of Michigan ag stepped up. We all saw the need, and that need was fostered by the fact that we wanted to see MSU remain at the forefront of dairy research.”
Industry leaders believe the new center will help advance dairy science, improve educational opportunities, and support the next generation of dairy professionals. By combining modern technology, research capabilities, and industry collaboration, the facility is expected to play an important role in strengthening the dairy sector and preparing future leaders for a rapidly evolving agricultural industry.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education