Funding for the Beef Quality Assurance Program was provided, in part, by a grant from the Tennessee Beef Industry Council.
The initial concept of Tennessee’s BQA program will center around using live cattle in a hands on workshop. Producers can learn about the vital importance of injection site selection, proper injection techniques and see the results of improper injection techniques. Record keeping will be stressed because it helps producers track their costs and also provides a documented paper trail to prove to your buyers what treatments your calves have had. Proper cattle handling to reduce stress and bruises will also be emphasized.
BQA Certification.
The reason we are offering BQA Certification is simple. Many buyers of feeder cattle are seeking out BQA Certified, source verified calves. As a matter of fact, with some of the most highly regarded branded beef product lines, such as Nebraska Corn Fed Beef, the only cattle eligible for enrollment are BQA Certified calves. By establishing the BQA Certified program here, we are opening up a market outlet for those progressive cattlemen who become “Certified”.
Current BQA Certification is required for some Tennessee Agriculture Enhancement Programs. New certification or renew of an expired certification is available at the Cheatham County Extension office, contact Ronnie Barron to schedule a time. Cost is $20 for current Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association members and $40 for non-members.
