BEEF QUALITY CLASS IN SESSION

Cattleman, The, Jun 2008

More than 50 cattle producers transformed into students during the Beef 706 class held at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. Beef 706, part of the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) effort in Texas, takes cattle producers through a hands-on learning experience on beef quality.

For nearly 20 years the program has been educating producers about the factors impacting the safety and quality of beef.

Traditionally held at Texas A&M University, Beef 706 is a checkoff-funded BQA program presented in cooperation with Texas AgriLife Extension. The class has evolved with the industry and provided producers vital information allowing them to view their cattle as not just livestock, but as a food product.

In this unique two-day class, producers learn everything from quality and yield grading, to hands-on carcass fabrication.

"Strengthening consumer confidence by providing the best possible beef product, coupled with the overall industry goal of increasing beef demand is the foundation of beef quality assurance efforts," said Jason Bagley, Texas Beef Council (TBC), beef quality manager.

"Delivering a safe, consistent, quality product is the best way to increase beef consumption," said Dr. Dan Hale, extension meat specialist, Texas Agri-Life Extension. "Producers should be aware that the day-to-day management of their cattle, whether we're talking about branding, weaning, handling or even herd vaccination plans; these all impact the quality and wholesomeness of beef."

Beef 706 is held several times a year at universities across Texas including Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, West Texas A&M University, Angelo State University and Tarleton State University.

There are two Beef 706 classes scheduled for July 29-30 and July 31-Aug. 1 at Texas A&M University in College Station.

For more information on Texas beef quality programs and checkoff information, please call 800/846-4113 or visit www.texasbeef.org or www. texasbeefquality.com