The creation of the pasture-based dairy facility at KBS is a logical extension of the strong tradition of ecological research at the Kellogg Biological Station (KBS). It will foster and promote interactions with campus units that have had limited participation in research, educational and outreach activities at KBS. Integration of the row-crop and dairy production research programs at KBS will provide a unique opportunity to examine agriculture from an integrated, whole system perspective.

The pasture-based KBS Dairy Farm will serve as a research center for faculty and students from a broad range of disciplines, enhance educational and outreach programs throughout MSU, and serve the needs of a growing number of stake-holders who have no other venue for getting the information they need to make informed decisions about alternative animal production practices. Integration in this way will provide opportunities to address a broad range of questions (ecological, social, economic,,,) related to sustainable agricultural and food system practices that are fundamental to maintaining agriculture as a viable economic endeavor in Michigan.

Dairy Facility Development and Construction

Construction on the new dairy facility began this fall and will be completed by spring 2009.  The pasture dairy will consist of two pastures.  A larger (160 acre) pasture will be used for lactating animals and a smaller (35 acre) pasture will be grazed by developing heifers and dry cows.  The larger pasture is equiped with a K-Line irrigation system and both pastures will be subdivided for rotational grazing.   A free-stall barn with milking parlor will be located in the middle of the larger pasture.  The milking parlor will contain two robotic milking systems (www.lelyusa.com). 

Click here to see an update on the construction of the new facility.

For Additional Information on the Pasture-Based Dairy Project Contact:

haanm@msu.edu