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A Cooperative Proposal A Modern Facility Designed to Support Teaching and Research about Commercial Dairies in the Northwest |
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Idaho's and Washington's
combined milk production ranks third nationally. The dairy industry is
the largest agricultural contributor to the economies of both states.
These factors partly reflect the University of Idaho's and Washington
State University's responsiveness to the research, extension, and education
needs of the dairy industry for more than a century. Times are changing,
and those changes are challenging our ability to respond. Both universities operate dairies
that are vital for research and teaching but are in danger of growing
obsolete. Many factors have forced the dairy industry to shift rapidly
to larger, more efficient operations. Dairy herds of 500 to 1,000 cows
are commonplace. The newest dairies are built for herds numbering thousands
of cows. The two universities milk about
125 cows each. The average herd size in Idaho and Washington is about
325 cows. Clearly, the university herds do not represent modern dairies.
This impairs their teaching programs because students do not get the chance
to train in realistic facilities. Further, the small numbers of cows restrict
research because animal numbers and availability limit the scope of experiments. Bigger dairies present new challenges to their operators, communities, and the environment. State and federal regulators need better research to reach the best decisions. Students need more modern training for challenges ahead. The larger, joint dairy will more closely align research, teaching, and extension to future industry needs. The Bi-State Dairy will
enhance extension programs in Idaho and Washington that support the dairy
industry. Dairy groups in both states are involved in planning and vigorously
support the concept. Students and researchers in the two universities‚
agricultural colleges, and veterinary medical education program will benefit
greatly from the advanced facilities. The project will support the state-of-the-art dairy processing unit at WSU that adds greater value to an economically vital commodity in both states. There is much work still to be done. A feasibility study lies ahead to find a suitable site that is convenient to both campuses. Environmental reviews must be completed and permits secured. |
For further information contact: University of Idaho Washington State University
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