By Andi Anderson
The Michigan State University (MSU) Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center is renowned for its dedicated staff and high standards in milk production and animal welfare.
Carolyn Dominguez, a herdsperson at the farm, highlights the staff's commitment, saying, "We are here for the cows day and night, through all weather, because we love the cows and the farm."
The farm, located just south of MSU's East Lansing campus, houses 220 cows and serves as a teaching and research facility. Led by Farm Manager Jim Good and Assistant Manager Chris Pawlanta, the staff ensures the health and well-being of the cows while mentoring the next generation of dairy farmers. Good emphasizes the dual role of the staff as both herdspeople and educators.
The farm's success is evident in its recognition by the National Mastitis Council, naming it one of six Platinum Award winners for 2024. This award honors dairy farms for their milk quality, udder health monitoring, and overall herd welfare.
MSU's dairy farm also plays a crucial role in student education. Students gain hands-on experience in animal care, calf feeding, milking, and equipment maintenance. Dominguez, a former student employee, credits her experiences at the farm with shaping her career.
The farm is undergoing significant upgrades to expand its herd size and modernize facilities, enhancing its research and teaching capabilities.
These improvements, funded by a $75 million project, will support MSU’s contributions to Michigan's dairy industry, which adds over $15 billion to the state's economy annually.
The staff's dedication to research and animal care is vital to the farm's operations. Randy Bontrager, a long-time herdsperson, stresses the importance of maintaining high standards and training new employees effectively.
The farm’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its multiple National Quality Dairy Awards.
With the new facilities, the MSU Dairy Farm will continue to lead in dairy research and education, providing students with a modern learning environment.
The public will also have the opportunity to learn about sustainable dairy farming through tours and a visitor center.
Dominguez is excited about the future, saying, "People need to be aware of where their food comes from and how dairy fits into the food system. I'm excited for people to learn about dairy's role in sustainability and conservation."
The MSU Dairy Farm stands as a model for excellence in dairy farming, education, and research, driven by a dedicated team passionate about their work and the future of the dairy industry.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education