Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) 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. 

Certifications may also be completed online at:
https://www.bqa.org/beef-quality-assurance-certification/online-certifications

Dairy farmers:  The national dairy FARM program can help dairy producers manage their operations in ways that will insure quality milk as well as produce beef that will meet consumer expectations. All dairy producers that complete a FARM 3.0 evaluation are BQA equivalent. For more information on the FARM program visit:  National Dairy Farm. 

Wisconsin’s Beef Quality Assurance Coordinators are: