FORT WORTH, TEXAS – Beef producers can get free training to help them become more competitive by attending the Texas Beef Quality Producer (TBQP) program in Vernon, Tuesday, Aug. 24, at the Wilbarger County Auditorium.

“The Texas Beef Quality Producer program teaches the principles of Beef Quality Assurance , a proven system of sensible management practices that help improve the quality and safety of beef,” explains Dave Scott, president of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA).

“In addition, the program updates ranchers on changes occurring in the industry and what we must do to increase demand for our cattle. It clearly demonstrates how a producer’s actions on the ranch have a huge impact on the final beef product,” said Scott.

The session involves an intensive day of training.  The certification program covers Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) principles, industry updates, record keeping, environmental stewardship and proper management practices associated with genetic selection, cattle handling, culling, vaccine and drug use.

Participants should  RSVP by Aug. 20 to TSCRA at (800) 242-7820 or emailsfox@tscra.org or the Wilbarger County Extension Office at (940) 552-5474.

Registration begins at 9:30 p.m. The program begins at 10 p.m. and should conclude by 4 p.m.  A complimentary lunch will be served.

The Wilbarger County Auditorium is located 2100 Yamparika Street in Vernon.

TBQP program is a collaborative effort of TSCRA, Texas Beef Council (TBC) and Texas AgriLife Extension Service.

Funding is provided by TSCRA, checkoff dollars from TBC and sponsorships from IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. and Pfizer Animal Health.

The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is a 133-year-old trade organization.  As the largest and oldest livestock association in Texas,  TSCRA represents more than 15,000 beef cattle producers, ranching families and businesses who manage approximately 4 million head of cattle on 51.5 million acres of range and pasture land, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma.  TSCRA provides law enforcement and livestock inspection services, legislative and regulatory advocacy, industry news and information, insurance services and educational opportunities for its members and the industry.

TSCRA – 74 – 2010