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Beef
Beef/Cattle Extension Program
State Programs
Beef
Quality Assurance
The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program is a voluntary program that has
united the entire industry in a single mission - production of high quality
beef that is safe and wholesome. It is a catalyst for the use of science
and technology that will allow producers to work with animal scientists,
veterinarians, feed suppliers, animal health companies, feeders, packers
and retailers in meeting consumer expectations. BQA accomplishes this
by helping producers identify the day-to-day management practices that
influence the production of the safest beef possible.
Steer
of Merit Program
The Montana Steer of Merit Program was initiated in 1967 as a joint effort
between the Montana Stockgrowers Association and Montana State University,
and was designed to measure, record, and improve carcass characteristics
in beef cattle. Since that time, steer carcass characteristics have been
evaluated on a total of over 20,000 head. The purpose is to assist in
the production of high quality beef and meet the beef quality desires
of consumers and to educate young people about economically important
carcass traits. The program is conducted through county fairs and livestock
shows accompanied by carcass contests. Market cattle (finished steers)
entered in live animal shows are slaughtered and entered in the Steer
of Merit program. Experienced qualified carcass judges take carcass measurements
on characteristics of importance to both eating quality and yield of lean
beef. Both exhibitors and breeders of high quality steers are recognized
on a county and state basis.
Beef
Questions and Answers Newsletter
This is a departmental newsletter funded by the Beef Council and written
by faculty and county extension agents. Current issues in beef cattle
production will be discussed.
County
Agents/Livestock Producers
Regional agent training programs will be offered to keep county agents
current on issues in beef cattle production. Producer education programs
are scheduled throughout the state by county extension agents and taught
by MSU Extension Specialists, faculty and county agents.
Montana
Nutrition Conference
This symposium is for technical specialists, veterinarians and county
agents. The focus is on meeting the nutrient demands of livestock.
Montana
Beef Network
The MSU Beef Extension program has been involved in developing the Montana
Beef Network with the Montana Stockgrowers Association which will assist
Montana livestock producers in receiving added value for their cattle
by supplying customers with cattle that meet specific beef quality and
consistency targets. Click
here
Gate
to Plate Seminars
This is a coordinated effort between MSU, the Beef Council and Montana
Stockgrowers to provide education to producers, county agents and people
in allied industries on issues facing the beef cattle industry. Live and
carcass pricing of cattle and carcass quality issues are illustrated by
evaluating live cattle of varying quality and fabricating the carcasses
to retail consumer cuts of beef. Critical control points in production
and processing are also discussed.
Montana
Beefability Program
There are currently 4 sites throughout Montana in which beef producers
enroll feeder calves into this program which is designed to provide information
to ranchers on how their cattle perform in the feedlot and in the packing
plant. This program also provides education on cattle finishing and marketing
practices, carcass evaluation, factors influencing value of the product
and beef quality assurance.
Cattle
Health Management
This program began in 1997 as a cooperative effort with the MT Veterinary
Association. The program focuses on calving management, animal health
and well being.
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