MSU And Case IH Partner To Advance Agricultural Innovation

By Andi Anderson

A new partnership between Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR), MSU AgBioResearch (ABR), and Case IH is transforming the way agricultural research and education are conducted.

The agreement gives MSU low-cost access to a fleet of Case IH tractors, equipping the university’s farms and research centers with some of the most advanced machinery in modern agriculture.

With more than 180 years of expertise, Case IH is a global leader in durable and efficient equipment. The collaboration provides MSU students, researchers, and farm staff with hands-on access to high-performance tractors, expanding research capabilities and enhancing training opportunities.

George Smith, director of MSU AgBioResearch, emphasized the value of the partnership: “We are grateful to Case IH for providing us with access to these high-performance tractors that enable our researchers, staff and students to carry out essential agricultural operations with precision and efficiency.”

Across MSU’s main campus, Case IH tractors such as the Farmall 55C, 75C, and Magnum 200 play critical roles in day-to-day operations. These machines support turfgrass maintenance, crop and soil research, and agronomy trials.

At the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, the Farmall 55C assists with turf renovation, grading, and fertilizer applications. “The Farmall 55C has become an essential asset in our daily operations,” said Turf Research Center Manager Jesse Sholl.

Beyond campus, Case IH technology is making an impact at multiple MSU research centers. At the Kellogg Biological Station, the Magnum 340 tractor powers large-scale research on sustainability and bioenergy, while at the Trevor Nichols Research and Extension Center, the Farmall 110N supports pest management, apple and blueberry research, and regenerative agriculture trials.

Kurt Coffey, Vice President of Case IH North America, noted the shared values between the university and the company: “When Case IH tractors are at work across MSU’s farms and research centers, they power vital research and reflect the strength, reliability and tradition that have defined our brand for over 180 years.”

This partnership represents a forward-thinking collaboration between academia and industry, enhancing the university’s capacity for innovation, precision agriculture, and sustainable farming education. With Case IH’s continued support, MSU is preparing the next generation of agricultural professionals to lead the future of farming.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu