Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a program developed to ensure that beef and dairy cattle are managed in a manner that will result in safe and wholesome beef and milk products for the consumer. This statement is not only the definition but the goal of BQA Certification. Specifically, BQA is designed to enhance carcass quality by preventing drug residues, injection-site blemishes and bruises. The Tennessee Beef Quality Assurance Program is based on recommended national guidelines and scientific research. This program enables beef and dairy producers to enhance their product, maximize marketability and strengthen consumer confidence.
A BQA number is required to participate in the Master Beef Producer Program. To be certified or re-certify your BQA, schedule an appointment to take the training at the Giles County Extension office located at 132 S. 2nd. St., Pulaski, TN 38478 (located on the corner beside the Giles County Public Library). The training, which includes a training video and a post test, will last about an hour. Available training times are Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 3:30pm. We are closed most Holidays.
Fees payable to Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association (TCA)
- $40 – non-members, who only want the BQA certification or for renewal of BQA certification
- $50- to join TCA for the first time and for members renewal
- $10- to join Giles County Cattlemen’s Association
- $10- for members BQA certification
- $60- includes annual (TCA) membership renewal or fee to join TCA and BQA certification
- $70- includes TCA membership/fee to join TCA, BQA certification, and local (Giles) membership
Members of TCA receive a monthly magazine, an invitation to the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association annual meeting, and included in the Monday Memo’s email that include updates in the beef industry.
Fees and contract (given at time of training) should be mailed to: Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association – 530-B Brandies Circle, Murfreesboro, TN 37128