Describe the Issue or Situation.

The beef cattle industry is currently in a thriving market.  Even in a time of incredibly great prices, it’s important to understand and practice sound production practices in beef operations. Beef producers in the University of Kentucky’s Extension West 8 area recognize the need to continue their education on producing quality beef as the cattle inventory in that area alone equates to nearly 20% of the beef cattle in Kentucky according to the USDA Ag Statistics Service.  On May 1st, 2025, the West 8 Ag agents along with University of Kentucky Beef Specialists gathered at Farmers Regional Livestock Market in Glasgow, Ky to host a Beef Quality and Care Assurance chute side field day to address and reiterate the importance of sound production practices that have been proven to work and increase the bottom line for Kentucky Beef Producers.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

West 8 Ag Agents promoted the event with the help of staff from the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association, University of Kentucky Beef Extension, as well as the Kentucky Beef Network.   Producers that were present were mostly from the West 8 region (Barren, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Hart) as well as a few from outside of that area as far away as Gallatin Tennessee.   Producers were presented with a great meal provided by the Kentucky Beef Network. After the meal the producers were separated into groups and provided with learning sessions pertaining to general BQCA guidelines, pregnancy diagnosis (including chute side blood testing), proper implanting techniques, using distillery by-products, as well as feeder calf grading.  Attendees were challenged with more information than just the typical BQCA program.   

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

28 participants (2 -4-H participants)

5 University of Kentucky Ag Agents as well as 2 KSU Ag Agents

5 Specialists from University of Kentucky as well as The Kentucky Beef Network

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

Upon completion of the program, 24 producers completed an exam and received their BQCA certification from the Kentucky Beef Network.  Having such certification will allow them to participate in programs such as CAIP as well as ensure livestock buyers that the cattle purchased from these producers are produced with the best possible care and animal husbandry.  The host livestock market manager spoke so highly of the program that he wanted to make it an annual event at their facility.  One agent received a phone call 8 week later from a couple who just confirmed pregnancy on a group of heifers.  They were excited and thanked the agent for the training opportunity