By Blake Jackson
Local cattle producers and community members gathered on Feb. 5 at First Baptist Church in Houston for a Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training.
The program was organized through a partnership between the Texas County Cattlemen’s Association and University of Missouri Extension in Texas County. Progressive Ozark Bank of Houston provided the meal for attendees.
BQA is a nationally recognized initiative supported by the Missouri Beef Industry Council that promotes best management practices, proper animal care, food safety, and responsible stewardship across the beef industry. Producers who complete the training earn BQA certification, which remains valid for three years.
“Cattlemen in Missouri do a great job with their livestock but taking the step to become BQA certified shows extra commitment to producing quality beef for consumers,” said Eric Meusch, MU Extension livestock specialist.
More than 60 individuals attended the Houston session, and 44 area producers achieved BQA certification. “The success of this event was largely due to the collaboration with the Texas County Cattlemen’s Association that provides regular educational opportunities to its members throughout the year,” said Meusch.
For additional details about BQA or MU Extension programs, contact the MU Extension Center in Texas County at 417-967-4545 or email Meusch at meusche@missouri.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-erdinhasdemir
Categories: Missouri, Livestock, Beef Cattle