University of Idaho Gets Green Light For Research Dairy

With the approval of the Idaho State Board of Education, the University of Idaho will now move forward with plans to construct one of the largest research dairies in the U.S.  The Board of Education Oked the schools proposal to purchase land near Rupert, ID, to house the $45 million project.  U of I College of Ag Dean Michael Parrella said the property will include the dairy as well as 1,000 acres that can be used for a variety of research projects.

“So, there will be an agronomic aspect of the dairy which will include the crops, the forage, the rotation, healthy soil, irrigation strategies, in a sense these things are critical obviously to feed these animals, but they’ll also from a nutrient management prospective which is a key part of what the industry faces moving forward.”

In addition, Parrella said they will study waste management which he said plays a pivotal roll in the dairy industry.  Agriculture is roughly 20% of Idaho’s Gross Domestic Product, and dairy makes up a big portion of Idaho’s Farm economy.

“You know, dairy represents at least 35% of all of Idaho agriculture.  So, we’re focused here on the sustainability of the dairy industry moving forward and all of its components.  I think this will provide a tremendous service and excitement I think for all of Idaho.”

The Idaho Dairymen’s Association will also be involved not only in the purchase of the land, but the research facility as well.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com