BQA Certification Helps Tell the Story of Idaho Beef - Raised Right, Here.
Idaho’s consumer landscape is evolving with census data reflecting that Idaho’s 17.3% population growth in the last 10 years makes Idaho the second fastest growing state, trailing only Utah’s 18.4%. While growth invites new economic opportunity, the beef industry faces challenges as most of the new arrivals are coming from California, Washington and Oregon, regions that may not value Ag to the same high degree as Idahoans do. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) quarterly State Dashboard survey data confirms that Pacific Northwest consumers have the 2nd lowest scores on knowledge of raising cows for food, are 14% less likely to eat beef weekly, and have overall beef perceptions that are the lowest of any market (only 29% responded with high positive perceptions). To ensure that the story of quality Idaho beef production comes through loud and clear, it is more important than ever to demonstrate Idaho’s commitment to sustainable practices and the quality care of cattle every step of the way.
As producers, one easiest and most impactful ways you can strongly position your operation for this changing environment is to obtain Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Certification. In addition, Cattle producers can capture more value from their market cattle. CattleFax reported a 3-year study finding that operations with BQA-certified personnel yielded an average of $42/head more per calf sold compared to those without BQA training.
You can make it happen by attending the Pacific Northwest Stockmanship & Stewardship Tour, in Ontario, Oregon on October 8-9, 2021.
Industry experts Curt Pate, Dr. Ron Gill and Dean Fish will provide live demonstrations, sharing best practice tips and techniques. In addition, you’ll be networking with industry peers who can help you to expand your knowledge and spark new ideas.
- Get BQA Certified.
- Network with fellow producers.
- Gain education for you and your operation.
- Learn cutting edge operation techniques.
- Partake in hands-on demonstrations from stockmanship experts.
- Receive education on how to make the most of YOUR cattle facility.
There is a special program available that can help cover the costs. You can apply for educational funding through the Rancher Resilience Grant program. This grant supports cattle producer attendance at impactful education events, such as the Stockmanship & Stewardship event in Ontario, OR. It is made possible through a partnership between the National Cattlemen’s Foundation and Cargill Protein and is administered by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. You can apply to receive reimbursement for your registration costs and two-night hotel stay.
- Simply complete the application and steps for reimbursement.
- Select the Stockmanship & Stewardship event in Ontario, OR from the drop-down list to select the event you are interested in attending.
- Find all the details on the Producer tab at NCBA.org.
Visit the Rancher Resilience Grant page on the NCBA website and apply today. Join world-renowned stockmanship clinicians and leaders at the Stockmanship & Stewardship experience in Ontario, OR. If you’re ready to gain valuable industry insights and explore ways to improve your operation, register today!