The Cooperative Extension Service in Swain County will hold a Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certification program for beef cattle producers in Western North Carolina from 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 15 at the Extension Center. 

BQA is a voluntary program in which cattle producers assume responsibility for producing beef that is a healthy, quality product and free from injection-site lesions and bruises and other defects that are often the result of poor handling practices. The certification — good for a three-year period  — can also offer potential price advantages to producers who plan to market cattle through graded sales.

Cost is $15 for N.C. Cattlemen’s Association members and $40 for non-members. Keith Wood, NCSU Extension Agriculture Agent from Cherokee County, will cover feeds, feed additives and medications, record keeping, handling, hauling and husbandry practices. Preregistration required by Nov. 12. 828.488.3848.