Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance has released the 2026 schedule for Beef Quality Assurance (BQA)and BQA Assurance Transportation certification events.
The trainings allow attendees to earn both certifications during the same session.
BQA is a national program that provides science-based information and practical guidance to beef producers on best management practices for raising cattle under optimal conditions. Core principles include proper animal husbandry, prevention of violative residues and reduced injection site damage. The program has expanded to include cattle handling, facility design, transportation practices, recordkeeping and overall herd health management.
The mission of BQA is to strengthen consumer confidence in beef by focusing on everyday production practices that influence the safety, quality and wholesomeness of beef products. The program’s principles guide the management of more than 80% of the U.S. cattle supply.
Nebraska BQA encourages all segments of the beef industry, including producers and cattle transporters, to maintain current certifications, which demonstrate a commitment to responsible management practices and continuous improvement.
Benefits of certification include staying current on industry standards, strengthening consumer trust and supporting cattle health and operational efficiency. Analyses of online calf sales have also shown that certified cattle often bring a premium in video auction markets.
Certification is valid for three years. Individuals certified prior to 2023 may need to renew their certification.
To learn more about Nebraska BQA or to find a certification event near you, visit bqa.unl.edu. To register for an event, visit the website or contact Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead at 308-633-0158.
Additional certification events may be added to the 2026 schedule as they become available. Producers are encouraged to check the website periodically for updates.
The 2026 schedule (all times are Central Daylight Time unless otherwise noted):
• North Platte: April 13, 4 p.m., West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Road.
• Plainview: April 22, 4 p.m., Plainview Public Library, 209 N. Pine St.
• Ithaca: April 23, 4 p.m., Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center, 1071 County Road G.
• Imperial: May 6, 1 p.m. MDT, Lied Imperial Public Library, 703 Broadway St.
• Holdrege: May 7, 4 p.m., Phelps County Ag Center, 1308 Second St.
• St. Paul: May 13, 1 p.m., St. Paul Library Community Room, 1301 Howard Ave.
• Bladen: June 2, 6 p.m., Webster County Fairgrounds, 459 N. Crescent St.
• Albion: July 8, 5:30 p.m., Town and Country Veterinary Clinic, 2572 State Highway 14.
• Bridgeport: Sept. 9, 4 p.m., Prairie Winds Community Center, 428 N. Main St.
• Tecumseh: Dec. 1, 1 p.m., Johnson County 4-H Building, 633 N. First St. — Nebraska Extension
