TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) -- An Indiana company has pledged $1 million to help jump-start private fundraising for a livestock research center in the heart of Idaho's dairy country.

The donation was announced this week by Elanco during the Idaho Dairymen's Association Producer and Allied Industry meeting.

The Times-News reports that animal health company, based in Greenfield, Indiana, will disperse the money over five years.

The total cost for building the Idaho National Center for Livestock and Environmental Studies is pegged at $35 million.

The dairy industry has vowed to kick in $5 million, while the University of Idaho and the state have agreed to contribute $10 million apiece.

So far, private donations are estimated at $1.5 million.

University of Idaho President Duane Nellis says Elanco's donation should help energize more donations from the private sector.

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Information from: The Times-News, http://www.magicvalley.com

Copyright 2010 The AP.