The University of Missouri Extension will offer two upcoming opportunities for beef producers to earn or renew Beef Quality Assurance certification:

• Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at South Shelby Cafeteria, located at 4154 US-36 in Shelbina
• Registration is required by Oct. 29
•  Jan. 14, 2027 at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church, located at 21875 MO-6 in Ewing
• Registration is required by Jan. 7, 2027

To register, contact the Lewis County Extension Office at 573-767-5273 or email Brenda Schreck, MU Extension Livestock Specialist, at schreckb@missouri.edu.

There is no cost to attend. Participants will gain practical information to help improve herd health, productivity and profitability while completing BQA certification requirements.

Lewis County Extension is hosting both events. A complimentary meal will be provided at each location. The Shelbina meal is sponsored by the Missouri Beef Industry Council and the Monroe-Shelby County Cattlemen's Association. The Ewing meal is sponsored by the Lewis and Marion County Cattlemen’s Association and Canton Veterinary Clinic.

BQA is a national program that promotes best management practices related to animal care, herd health, beef quality and producer profitability. Certification demonstrates a commitment to producing a safe, wholesome, and high-quality beef product while following industry-recognized standards.

Both sessions will cover current BQA guidelines and certification requirements. New and renewing participants are welcome. Producers need to attend only one session to earn or renew certification.

"Whether producers are seeking their first certification or renewing an existing certification, BQA provides practical information they can take home and apply to improve herd management, animal care and product quality," said Brenda Schreck, University of Missouri Extension field specialist in livestock.