Beef Quality Assurance

Beef Quality Assurance is a nationally coordinated, state-implemented program that provides systematic information to U.S. beef producers and beef consumers on how common-sense husbandry techniques can be coupled with accepted scientific knowledge to raise cattle under optimum management and environmental conditions. BQA guidelines are designed to make certain all beef consumers can take pride in what they purchase – and can trust and have confidence in the entire beef industry.

Beef Quality Assurance in Wisconsin

BQA does more than just help beef producers capture more value from their cattle: BQA also reflects a positive public image and instills consumer confidence in the beef industry. When producers implement the best management practices of a BQA program, they assure the cattle they sell are the best they can be. Today, the stakes are even higher because of increased public attention on animal welfare. BQA is valuable to all beef and dairy producers because it: 

• Demonstrates commitment to food safety and quality.
• Safeguards the public image of the beef and dairy industries.
• Upholds consumer confidence in valuable beef products.
• Improves sale value of marketed beef cattle.
• Enhances herd profitability through better management.

How can you become certified?

BQA certification can be done online or by attending an in-person training organized by Wisconsin’s Beef Quality Assurance Coordinators. Visit BQA.org for the online courses.  You can select from the type of production that best fits your farm – cow/calf, stocker/backgrounder, feedyard or transportation.

Farmers can also become certified by attending an in-person training. Click below for meeting dates and registration details.

Upcoming In-Person Trainings

BQA certification and testing will be held at the Altoona Equity Co-op Sale Barn, 5150 US-53, Eau Claire, WI 54701.  Wednesday, February 22, 2023.  Starts promptly at 1 p.m., concludes by 3 p.m.  RSVP REQUIRED by February 15th.

To register online go to https://tinyurl.com/2hr5karf.  To register by phone, call one of the following:

• Taylor County Extension office at 715-748-3327 ext. 3
• Wisconsin Beef Council at 800-728-2333
• Altoona Equity Sale Barn at 715-835-3104

Wisconsin’s Beef Quality Assurance Coordinators are:

BQA Certification Registration

Select one location that best fits your schedule. Due to limited room capacity, we encourage one attendee per farm. Must register at least 7 days before the meeting date. NO Walk-Ins ALLOWED. Locations may cancel due to low enrollment and those registered will be notified.

BQA Certification Registration Form & Dates