MARSHFIELD, WIS. – Food processing industry distributor Nelson-Jameson, Inc., announced its foundation is contributing $50,000 to support the development of the University of Idaho’s forthcoming research dairy.

Set to become the largest research dairy in the United States, the Idaho Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (CAFE) in Rupert, Idaho, will support the region’s agriculture, as well as the national dairy industry.

Once operational, the Idaho CAFE’s research will include projects to develop sustainability solutions for dairy, food processing, livestock and crop protection.

“We are so pleased to be part of the important work that CAFE is doing to support local agricultural practices and lead the dairy industry into the future,” said Mat Bartkowiak, vice president of corporate responsibility and development for Nelson-Jameson. “Food systems are facing myriad challenges and the CAFE project is solving these challenges with forward-thinking, innovative approaches to food and dairy production and distribution.”

Revealed plans for the Idaho CAFE include examining dairy production viability, given evolving economic conditions, cultural preferences and environmental pressures. Researchers also plan to examine revenue diversification opportunities for dairy farmers, with the site operating a demonstration dairy farm.

The site also will give University of Idaho students access to educational opportunities and research programs.

“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.”