While many producers participate in Beef Quality and Care Assurance (BQCA or BQA) trainings because they are mandatory for the livestock cost- share, there is research proving that there is a financial benefit for BQCA certified producers as well.  According to a recent study by the Beef Checkoff-funded BQA program and conducted by Colorado State University (CSU), results show a significant premium for calves and feeder cattle sold through video auction markets.

On July 29th and 30th Owen and Franklin County Cooperative Extension Services hosted a BQCA Chute-Side training at the United Producers Inc. Livestock Market in Owenton KY.. Through this program participants, including stockyard employees, received hands on training on cattle handling, how to give injections, and to implant cattle from a local veterinarian, UK Specialists and ANR agents. The participants loved how they had real-life examples, this helped them comprehend better than the traditional video training. During this training the participants also learn how to create a nutritious SNAP beef recipe. 

Through this program offered by Owen & Franklin Cooperative Extension Services, 30 Kentucky cattle producers became better cattle stewards and potentially get more return on their product in this downward cattle market.