For the second year in a row, Michigan State University’s (MSU) Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center has been named one of the top dairy farms in the nation, earning a prestigious Platinum Award from the National Dairy Quality Awards (NDQA).
Presented by the National Mastitis Council, the NDQA program has celebrated leaders in high-quality milk production for three decades. This year, MSU’s dairy operation was one of only six farms to receive the top honor, standing out among 72 competitors from the United States and Canada.
MSU’s dairy farm is unique in its heavy reliance on student employees, who play a critical role in its day-to-day operations. Despite the challenges of a transient workforce due to graduation cycles, the farm has consistently prioritized prevention and effective training, maintaining its reputation for producing high-quality milk.
The NDQA winners, including MSU representatives, will be recognized at the National Mastitis Council’s 64th Annual Meeting from January 27–30, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Farm Manager Jim Good will accept the award on behalf of the team.
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
The MSU Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center is not only a working farm but also a hub for groundbreaking research conducted by faculty from MSU’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and College of Veterinary Medicine. It provides hands-on training for students, preparing them for careers in large animal care and agricultural sciences.
Over the years, the farm has been instrumental in advancing Michigan’s dairy industry, known for producing some of the world’s highest-quality milk. The team at MSU continues to lead in minimizing mastitis and ensuring the health of their dairy herd, even while operating in older facilities and navigating the challenges of a student-driven workforce.
The Platinum Award highlights the dedication and expertise of the MSU Dairy Farm team, reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable and efficient dairy production. This recognition underscores the farm’s commitment to both academic excellence and the advancement of the dairy industry.
