By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance are teaming up to offer Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and Beef Quality Assurance Transportation Certification (BQAT) this May in the Panhandle region.
The events are aimed at beef producers and transporters, enhancing their knowledge and practices to ensure the highest standards in beef quality and safety.
The certification sessions are scheduled for:
- Monday, May 20, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center in Scottsbluff.
- Tuesday, May 21, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Dawes County Fairgrounds 4H Building in Chadron.
Jesse Fulton, Director of Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance, emphasized the importance of these certifications. “By becoming or staying BQA and BQAT certified you are an integral part of beef's positive story to consumers," he said.
This initiative supports producers in maintaining compliance with commercial beef packing facilities, many of which require BQA and BQAT certifications for producers selling and transporting cattle.
These programs educate participants on animal health management, proper stockmanship, and animal welfare guidelines—critical for maintaining trust and confidence in beef production.
With a certification fee of $20 per person or $100 for operations with five or more attendees, the training is both accessible and affordable. Certifications are valid for three years, making this an important update for those whose credentials are expiring soon.
To register, producers can visit bqa.unl.edu or call the Panhandle Research and Extension Center on 308.632-1230. An email address is required for the electronic issuance of certificates.
These training sessions are crucial for keeping Nebraska's beef producers at the forefront of quality and safety standards in the industry, ensuring the state remains a leader in ethical and sustainable beef production.
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Categories: Nebraska, Business, Livestock, Beef Cattle