In summer 2009 the dairy transitioned from a conventional dairy system to a pasture-based dairy with robotic milking.  This transition was funded with support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES), Michigan State Universirty Extension (MSUE), and the Michigan State University Office of the Provost and College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

This transition helps to diversify MSU's research and outreach cababilities, allowing MSU to inform a small but growing number of pasture-based dairy producers in the state.

At capacity a 120-cow milking herd plus dry cows and heifers will be maintained on the farm. Dairy facilities include a free-stall barn with a robotic milking system, 200 acres of irrigated pasture, additional cropland and support buildings.

The Pasture Dairy Research and Education Center (PDREC) at the Kellogg Farm takes a 'field to fork' approach to rural community revitalization: beginning with the producers and production systems; completing with consumers and marketing. The PDREC supports "... an innovative program coupling applied research, education and outreach focused on pasture-based animal production that simultaneously advances (1) our understanding of managed landscapes, (2) our responsibility to provide Michigan growers with options that can enhance farm sustainability and profitability, (3) identification and implementation of strategies for supply chain development, (4) the building of markets and (5) the marked expansion of the role of animals in our land grant portfolio."