The Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program, offered annually in Roane County during the spring, is an educational initiative designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of beef cattle producers. Organized by the UT Extension Roane County Office, this in-person seminar covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for successful beef production, including:
- Beef Product
- Economics and Budgeting
- Facilities and Cattle Handling
- Forages
- Genetic Selection
- Health
- Marketing and Business Management
- Nutrition
- Reproduction
The program combines targeted educational presentations with hands-on demonstrations, aiming to improve profitability and promote sustainable use of natural resources among Tennessee cattle producers. Participants benefit from networking opportunities with fellow producers, educators, researchers, and industry representatives. Upon completing the program requirements, graduates receive a farm sign, cap, and certificate. Additionally, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture supports the program, incorporating it as the educational component of their Tennessee Agriculture Enhancement cost-share program.
For more information or to register for the upcoming seminar, interested individuals can contact the UT Extension Roane County Office at 865-376-5558 or fill out the form here to stay up to date on the latest classes.
Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a program sponsored by the Tennessee Cattleman’s Association, developed to ensure that beef and dairy cattle are managed in a manner that will result in safe and wholesome beef and milk products for the consumer. BQA is designed to enhance carcass quality by preventing drug residues, injection-site blemishes, and bruises, proper administration of livestock health products, correct vaccination procedures, correct withdrawal times and how to keep proper records to ensure that a safe and healthy beef food product is being produced. Although BQA is a voluntary program, it is required to qualify for the Tennessee Cattle Improvement Program which offers cost-share grants for the purchase and lease of bulls, AI, Bull Soundness Evaluations and cattle handling equipment.
Cost: BQA fees are $40 if you are not a TCA member. However, if you are a TCA member the BQA is $20. Remember there is only one discounted BQA per TCA membership. TCA membership is $30. BQA certification is good for three years.
For further information, you may e-mail Jessica W. Smith at JessicaWSmith@utk.edu, or contact her at 865-376-5558.
Detailed information may be found at www.bqa.org
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Community Economic Development, Executive/Administrative