CAFE brings together a cross-section of multidisciplinary scientists to study the animal and plant agriculture using a systems approach. Construction for phase one, at $22.5 million, is currently underway. When completed, the facility will be at the cutting edge for the industry and scheduled to be operational by late 2024. Researchers will examine the viability of dairy production in light of evolving economic conditions, cultural preferences, and environmental pressures and also study potential revenue diversification for dairy farmers. Operating as a demonstration dairy farm, it will have the capacity to house 2,000 cows when fully completed – a scale representative of dairying in the West.

“The beauty of Idaho CAFE is the linkages between the research dairy, agricultural production and our partners in industry,” said Michael P. Parrella, Dean of the University of Idaho’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. “Nelson-Jameson’s commitment to the project underlines industry’s need for sustainability research that will ensure the health and productivity of the industry for generations. We could not accomplish this effort without the support of generous partners like Nelson-Jameson.”

In keeping with the University of Idaho’s mission of research-driven innovation, students at the University of Idaho will have access to educational opportunities and research programs in connection with CAFE.