beef quality assurance
The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Program’s mission is to guide producers towards continuous improvement using science-based production practices. The nationally coordinated, state-implemented certification program focuses on cattle well-being, beef quality and safety. Funded by the Beef Checkoff, BQA programs cover cattle handling, facility management, cattle transportation, good record keeping and protecting herd health. These practices lead to better outcomes for cattle and producers, improving the production of beef and enhancing consumer trust and acceptance.
Consumer market research shows they consider animal welfare when making beef purchasing decisions. BQA answers their questions of how cattle are raised for food. Videos about how cattle are raised using BQA principles resonate well with consumer audiences.
bqa certication in Wisconsin
To earn a BQA certification, cattle producers and caretakers must either complete a BQA training online or in person and pass a test. BQA certifications are valid for three years from the date the original certification was earned.
- Online: Visit www.bqa.org to complete your online certification. Once you’ve logged into the website and selected a course, you can work through each lesson at your own pace. The website will keep track of your progress, so you don’t need to complete the entire course at one time. If you need help with getting logged into the system, visit the Frequently Asked Questions page, or contact one of Wisconsin’s BQA Coordinators below.
- In-person: BQA in-person meetings were held in several locations across Wisconsin from fall 2024 through winter 2025. There are currently no in-person certification meetings scheduled. If you have questions about certification, contact one of the BQA Coordinators below.
- Continuing Education: BQA now offers Continuing Education (CE) as an option to renew a BQA certification. All BQA CE courses provide a deeper dive into topics within the BQA manual. A producer can participate in CE online at www.bqa.org or by attending an educational program offered by the UW-Division of Extension where credits are offered. To renew a BQA certification through CE, a producer must obtain three CE credits before their BQA certificate expires. CE is only available to producers who are renewing a BQA certificate.
Wisconsin’s Beef Quality Assurance Coordinators are:
Tammy Vaassen
Wisconsin Beef Council
957 Liberty Drive, Suite 201
Verona, Wisconsin 53593
[email protected]
(608) 833-9940