South Dakota State University has offered Dairy Science programs since the beginnings of the university and its dairy plant has been the basis of its teaching and research programs. In 2011 SDSU was excited to open its doors to the state-of-the-art Davis Dairy Plant. This $9.3 million facility was made possible through funds from the dairy industry, dairy farmers, alumni and friends and includes a renovation of the old plant and 10,000 square feet addition. This plant is designed to offer hands-on experience to Dairy and Food Science students at SDSU.

The Davis Dairy Plant processes milk produced at the SDSU Dairy Research and Training Facility(DRTF) just a mile and a half north of campus. Under the guidance of the plant manager and assistant plant manager, students process this milk into multiple dairy products including cheese, butter, pasteurized milk, and ice cream. From here these products are then sold in the SDSU Dairy Bar and around campus as well as at various locations around the state. With more than 60 flavors to chose from, who wouldn't want to make a stop to visit the SDSU Dairy Bar? In addition, the plant is also a venue for numerous faculty and student, and industry research projects for dairy processing.