By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Beef Council (KBC) is encouraging cattle producers across the state to strengthen their management skills through a series of Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training sessions this fall. The program provides practical, research-based guidance focused on animal welfare, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement in beef production.
The trainings will be led by A.J. Tarpoff, an extension veterinarian with Kansas State University. Participants will receive information on cattle handling, animal health management, recordkeeping, and livestock transportation, all of which are essential to modern beef production.
The BQA program helps producers implement best management practices that support animal well-being and beef quality. By attending certification sessions, producers can stay current with industry standards while improving farm and ranch operations.
Three training events will be held across Kansas to increase accessibility for producers. Sessions are scheduled for November 4 at the Pratt County Fairgrounds in Pratt, December 15,2026 at Mankato Livestock Inc., and December 17 at the K-State Extension Wild West District Office in Sublette.
Each event will begin with a complimentary beef dinner at 6:00 p.m., followed by certification training at 6:30 p.m. The gatherings will provide opportunities for producers to learn from industry experts and connect with fellow cattle producers.
The training sessions are open to producers seeking initial BQA certification as well as those interested in renewing their credentials. Program topics will address practical challenges facing cattle operations and offer science-based solutions to improve management practices.
Producers interested in attending can register through Weston Schrader, Manager of Industry Relations for Kansas Beef Council, by emailing weston@kansasbeef.org or calling (785) 273-5225. The council hopes the training series will help producers strengthen their operations and support the continued success of Kansas' beef industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-erdinhasdemir
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock