University of Idaho Secures Land For CAFE Project Near Jerome

The University of Idaho announced last month the purchase of a site for the school’s education and outreach complex in Jerome.  The Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, better known as CAFE, will be constructed at the Crossroads Point Business Center.  The six acres is located along Highway 93 near the intersection with I-84.

The property will accommodate a public visitor center, faculty offices, laboratories, classrooms and housing linked to CAFE.  The purchase marks the second major step this year toward realizing the creation of the nation’s largest research dairy.  U of I and the Idaho Dairymen’s Association purchased property from the Whitesides family in February that will serve as the location for a 2,000-cow research dairy. That property is near Rupert

This purchase marks an important advance in realizing the overall goal of the Idaho Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment,” said Michael P. Parrella, dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. “CAFE will help Idaho’s important dairy industry, and the broader agricultural and business communities in the state by improving their sustainability so they remain a vital foundation of Idaho’s economy.”

Another major component of the Idaho CAFE project will involve enhanced food processing education and research opportunities in the Magic Valley in a partnership with the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls.

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