Beef Quality Assurance
Cattle ranchers are committed to raising cattle with the best of care. Ranchers across the United States stand strongly against any form of animal abuse or cruelty. We know that proper livestock care is not only ethical, but it’s also good business.
One way in which the beef community ensures the best care for livestock is through the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Program. The BQA Program was initiated in 1987 to provide cattle farmers and ranchers with the guidelines and training necessary to ensure animal health and well-being as well as provide a safe, quality beef. BQA principals influence the management practices of more than 90 percent of cattle.
How can you participate?
Participation in the program is voluntary. Any person who works with beef and/or dairy cattle in a cow/calf, stocker, backgrounder, or feedlot business is encouraged to be BQA certified. Certification requirements can be achieved by participating in a Florida training, or by successfully completing the self-study course online at:
BQA Training >
Florida State BQA Coordinators
Todd thrift, ph.d.
Dept of Animal Sciences
Building 459, Room 210 C
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-8597
[email protected]
matt hersom, ph.d.
Dept of Animal Sciences
231 E. Animal Sci Bldg. 459
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-2390
[email protected]
Matt irsik, dvm
College of Vet Medicine
P.O. Box 100136
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32610
(352) 392-4700 Ext 4049
[email protected]
National bqa award winners
2011
Lykes Bros.
Mike Milicevic
Okeechobee, FL.
2013
Kempfer cattle co.
The Kempfer Family
Deer Park, FL.
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Beef Quality ASSURANCE
Beef Quality Assurance is a national program that raises consumer confidence through offering proper management techniques and a commitment to quality within every segment of the beef industry.