Beef Quality Assurance sessions set

     The Iowa Beef Center is cooperating with the Iowa Beef Industry Council to host a series of Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training and certification sessions across Iowa before the end of 2018. BQA is a nationally-coordinated, state-implemented program that raises consumer confidence through offering proper management techniques and a commitment to quality within every segment of the beef industry.

     BQA certification is increasingly being encouraged, and in some cases required, by market outlets for finishing cattle and this trend is expected to increase. BQA is a voluntary program and the Iowa BQA Program is funded by the IBIC and the Beef Checkoff. The education component is delivered as a joint effort by IBC at Iowa State University and IBIC.

     Dates, times and sites for the certification sessions are as follows:

     • Nov. 14, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., held at Country Junction Restaurant, 913 15th Ave., SE, Dyersville. Speakers at 11 a.m., lunch at 12:30 p.m., BQA training at 1:15 p.m.  RSVP by Nov. 12 to Dave Rueber at 563-590-4775 or Patrick Bries at 319-480-9903. Or contact Denise Schwab at dschwab@iastate.edu.

     • Nov. 29, 5:30-9 p.m., held at Timber Center, 1005 E. Platt St., Maquoketa. Contact Denise Schwab at the email address listed above.

     • Dec. 3, 5:30-9 p.m., held at Durant Community Center, 606 5th Ave., Durant, IA. Contact Denise Schwab.

     • Dec. 4, 7-9 p.m., held at Kalona Sale Barn, 121 Ninth Street, Kalona. Meal to begin at 6 p.m. Contact Patrick Wall at patwall@iastate.edu.

     More sessions will be added so check the website -- www.iabeef.org/resources/producer-resources/iowa-beef-quality-assurance-program.

     BQA certification also is offered online at the national level. Learn more about the BQA program and its online certification option. Learn more about the BQA program and its online certification option by going to the website www.bqa.org.