Dairy Husbandry: Correspondence - O (Olson letters, etc.)

Instruction and research in dairying were activities at South Dakota State University long before a Department of Dairying was established. By 1897, when the department was formed, coursework was well established. In 1892, a dairy building was built, and much of the coursework was completed in the special labs and rooms. In addition to regular college courses, the department also offered a short course in creamery. These courses met for anywhere from two to twelve weeks, and were highly successful and very well attended for the 52 years of their existence.

Although minor name changes occurred through the years, the general philosophy of the department has remained essentially the same. Courses are taught which prepare students for careers in dairy manufacturing or dairy production. In addition to the BS degree, an MS in Dairy Science has been offered since 1903, and a Ph. D. in agriculture is also offered through the department in the areas of dairy science or dairy cattle nutrition and management. Much of the research is conducted through the Agricultural Experiment Station, as it had been since its inception. Dairying has also been a large component in the Cooperative Extension Service through the years.

The Department of Dairy Science has been very visible both on campus and throughout Brookings through the dairy processing plant and sales room. Students gain practical experience in processing and offer milk, cheese, butter and ice cream for sale through the sales room. These products are also used in campus eating facilities.