By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance has announced its 2026 schedule of Beef Quality Assurance and Beef Quality Assurance Transportation certification events. These training sessions allow participants to earn both certifications during the same program, helping cattle producers and transporters stay updated on industry standards and best practices.
Beef Quality Assurance is a national program that provides science-based guidance to beef producers. The program focuses on proper animal care, safe handling practices, and management techniques that support cattle health and beef quality. Important topics include animal husbandry, prevention of violative residues, reduction of injection site damage, cattle handling, facility design, transportation practices, recordkeeping, and herd health management.
The mission of Beef Quality Assurance is to strengthen consumer confidence in beef products by promoting everyday production practices that improve safety, quality, and wholesomeness. Today, the program’s principles influence the management of more than 80% of the U.S. cattle supply. Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance encourages all parts of the beef industry to maintain current certifications as a sign of responsible management and continuous improvement.
Certification provides several benefits for producers. It helps them stay current with industry expectations, improve cattle care, and support operational efficiency. Industry analysts have also shown that certified cattle often receive a price premium in online and video auction markets. Certification remains valid for three years, and individuals certified before 2023 may need to be renewed.
Producers can learn more or register for events through the Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance website or by contacting program organizers. Additional sessions may be added during the year, so participants are encouraged to check for updates regularly.
2026 Certification Schedule (Central Daylight Time unless noted):
- North Platte: April 13, 4 p.m., West Central Research and Extension Center
- Plainview: April 22, 4 p.m., Plainview Public Library
- Ithaca: April 23, 4 p.m., Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center
- Imperial: May 6, 1 p.m. MDT, Lied Imperial Public Library
- Holdrege: May 7, 4 p.m., Phelps County Ag Center
- St. Paul: May 13, 1 p.m., St. Paul Library Community Room
- Bladen: June 2, 6 p.m., Webster County Fairgrounds
- Albion: July 8, 5:30 p.m., Town and Country Veterinary Clinic
- Bridgeport: Sept. 9, 4 p.m., Prairie Winds Community Center
- Tecumseh: Dec. 1, 1 p.m., Johnson County 4-H Building
These events provide valuable opportunities for producers to improve skills, maintain certifications, and strengthen confidence in the beef industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Beef Cattle