The Animal Humane Society has received a $3 million gift — the largest in its 142-year history — toward the creation of a new headquarters and animal adoption campus in St. Paul.

The $3 million donation comes from former Toro CEO and chairman Ken Melrose. The Golden Valley-based nonprofit will put the funds toward a future capital campaign aimed at building a “first-of-its-kind” animal care campus off Minnesota 280 and Kasota Avenue. Details on the campaign are expected to be released later this year.

“Animal Humane Society is one of the most sophisticated and forward-thinking humane organizations in the nation,” said Melrose, in a written statement. “I am excited to invest in their vision for the future of animal welfare.”

Melrose made a major donation to the humane society in 2011 that established the Melrose Animal Clinic in Golden Valley, which led to the development of a low-cost veterinary center that serves low-income pet owners in Golden Valley.

Another site for low-income owners is under development on University Avenue near Lexington Parkway in St. Paul.

The humane society receives no government funding and is backed by private donations and fees for services.