In a move to help the dairy industry in Kansas double in size, $36 million in funding and bonding authority has been added to the state budget. Senator J.R. Claeys of Salina made the announcement, stating that matching funds from industry are required to reach the $40 million goal. The new facility will drive innovation and research for the dairy industry in Kansas.
The current dairy facility at Kansas State University dates back to 1977 and is no longer practical for teaching students and conducting research using outdated methods. The facility also supports other programs at the university, including large-animal veterinary programs. Despite not being a priority for the university during this legislative session, leaders like Senator Claeys and Representative Ken Rahjes led the fight with support from organizations such as Dairy Farmers of America to secure funding for the replacement of the facility without official university backing.
Senator Claeys emphasized the importance of innovation in Kansas agriculture, noting that with major cheese factories already opening in western Kansas, adding dairy production to the state’s agriculture portfolio would bring additional benefits rather than outsourcing commodities.
