Montana State University has opened the Combined State Labs building, a new agricultural research and testing facility that brings together three laboratories to expand research, diagnostics and analytical services supporting the state's agricultural sector.
The facility houses the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station Wool Lab, the Montana Department of Livestock's Veterinary Diagnostic Lab and the Montana Department of Agriculture's Analytical Lab. University leaders, faculty, students, alumni, legislators, industry representatives and community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the project.
The Wool Lab, established at MSU in 1947, provides wool testing and research services for sheep producers across Montana and the surrounding region. The laboratory evaluates wool quality and sheep genetics to help improve flock performance, increase wool value and strengthen producer competitiveness. It is jointly managed by MSU's Department of Animal and Range Sciences and the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station and also serves as a training site for animal science students.
The Veterinary Diagnostic Lab provides disease testing and monitoring services for veterinarians, livestock producers, wildlife managers and government agencies. The laboratory also conducts testing for zoonotic diseases and supports food safety through analysis of animal products such as milk and eggs.
The Analytical Lab performs testing for feed, fertilizer, pesticides, groundwater and other agricultural and environmental samples used by producers, researchers and regulatory programs throughout Montana.
University officials said consolidating the three laboratories into one facility will strengthen collaboration while expanding research, education and outreach capabilities. The building replaces laboratory spaces that were more than 70 years old and provides updated infrastructure to support agricultural innovation.
Construction began in 2024 following funding approved by the Montana Legislature during its 2021 and 2023 sessions. The Montana Board of Regents also approved the use of university land for the shared facility, while private donations secured through the MSU Alumni Foundation supported the Wool Lab portion of the project.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees toured the new laboratories to view the expanded research, testing and diagnostic capabilities that will support Montana producers and agricultural researchers.
Source: Montana State University, "Hundreds celebrate grand opening of Combined State Labs building at Montana State"