By Andi Anderson
The new Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center at Michigan State University has received statewide recognition for innovation from the Michigan Green Building Collaborative.
The project was honored as one of Michigan’s most innovative developments in 2025 during the MiGBC Annual Party and Leadership Awards Ceremony held Dec. 11 in Grand Rapids.
The recognition highlights projects that go beyond traditional building design and operations. MiGBC focuses on improving quality of life across Michigan through better design, construction, and long-term community impact.
Award categories include energy efficiency, health and wellness, indoor air quality, resiliency, waste reduction, and other innovative practices.
“We are very excited to honor the MSU Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center as this year's Innovative Project third-place winner,” said Ally Beshouri, MiGBC communications manager. “The MSU dairy stands as an important example of what can be achieved when sustainability is considered for not only the physical facility but the education, community and positive future that is fostered within.”
The $75 million facility serves as a national model for dairy sustainability, education, and research. A key goal of the center is expanding teaching and research opportunities.
The dairy will nearly triple its herd size to about 700 cattle, allowing for growth in research projects, solutions to industry challenges, and expanded student and community outreach programs.
Sustainability is built into daily operations. All manure is processed through Michigan State University’s anaerobic digester, reducing fossil fuel use and helping power the dairy and other campus facilities.
Additional features include water reclamation systems, electric vehicle charging stations, and recycling of sand bedding used for cattle.
The State of Michigan provided $30 million in initial funding, with continued support expected from donors, corporate partners, and stakeholders.
“The new Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center brings MSU to the forefront of dairy science worldwide — advancing research and training the next generation of industry leaders,” said MSU AgBioResearch Director George Smith. “We appreciate the recognition from the MiGBC because sustainability is critical to the future of dairy production in Michigan. It’s important to point out that our partners have been an essential component of the process, helping to guide our construction efforts to ensure we’re able to address the dairy industry’s most pressing needs.
“We’re extremely appreciative of the State of Michigan’s initial funding, and we’re looking at opportunities for our stakeholders to continue to invest in this revolutionary facility that advances the largest sector of Michigan’s agricultural economy.”
Design partners for the project include TowerPinkster, Curry-Wille Associates, and The Christman Company.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Sustainable Agriculture