Missouri Beef Council Visits College of the Ozarks

By Blake Jackson

College of the Ozarks recently hosted members of the Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC) for their quarterly board meeting, followed by an afternoon tour showcasing the College’s agricultural programs and facilities.

The MBIC board, which convenes quarterly to oversee the state’s beef checkoff initiatives, selected the Branson area as the location for this year’s regional gathering. After conducting their business session at The Keeter Center, attendees toured several of the College’s agriculture departments, including its beef and dairy operations.

Sydney Long, executive director of MBIC, highlighted the importance of these quarterly sessions in determining how checkoff dollars are allocated across Missouri. “Our mission is to drive demand for beef,” Long said.

“Our board meetings are integral in gathering feedback on projects and campaigns that are taking place across the state. Each meeting allows us to connect with local producers, educators, and industry partners who share that same goal.”

Long added that holding one of the meetings at College of the Ozarks offered a valuable opportunity to witness firsthand how the College is preparing future agricultural professionals. “Our board was thrilled to see the current meat processing facility and hear about plans for the new facility that is under construction,” Long said.

“The livestock and beef farm managers were excellent hosts, and several of the beef farm employees joined to speak with our group as well. The hands-on learning opportunities available to students will prove invaluable no matter where their careers take them.”

At College of the Ozarks, work education is a central component of every student’s experience. Within the agricultural department, students gain practical skills by operating real-world facilities such as the beef and dairy farms, greenhouses, and feed mill.

These hands-on experiences foster both technical expertise and character development while serving the campus and local community.

The Missouri Beef Industry Council administers the state’s beef checkoff program, which supports education, research, and promotional efforts that strengthen Missouri’s beef sector. Reflecting on the visit, Long said, “Overall, it was an excellent experience from start to finish. The College’s agricultural setup demonstrates exactly how practical education can prepare young people for success in agriculture and beyond.”

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