Free Beef Quality Assurance Training Set for Thursday in Pipestone

University of Minnesota Extension and Minnesota Beef Council to host free BQA certification session

Mar. 11, 2026 at 5:10pm

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Cattle producers in Pipestone, Minnesota will have the opportunity to complete Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training on Thursday, March 12 at the Pipestone Livestock Auction Market. The free training session, hosted by University of Minnesota Extension and the Minnesota Beef Council, will take place immediately following a special feeder calf auction.

Why it matters

BQA certification is a voluntary program, but many major beef industry buyers and processors now require it from producers in their supply chains in order to maintain market access. This training provides local cattle producers an easy way to get certified and keep their operations aligned with industry standards.

The details

The BQA training session will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 at the Pipestone Livestock Auction Market. The certification is valid for three years. Producers with questions or who wish to register can contact the Pipestone County Extension Office.

  • The BQA training session will take place on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • The session will begin at 2:30 p.m., immediately following a special feeder calf auction.

The players

University of Minnesota Extension

A statewide organization that provides educational programs and resources to Minnesota communities, including training for the state's agricultural producers.

Minnesota Beef Council

A non-profit organization that represents Minnesota's beef producers, working to promote beef consumption and support the state's beef industry.

Pipestone Livestock Auction Market

A livestock auction facility located in Pipestone, Minnesota that hosts regular auctions for area cattle producers.

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What’s next

Producers interested in attending the free BQA training session should contact the Pipestone County Extension Office at 507-825-1190 to register.

The takeaway

This free BQA certification training provides an important opportunity for Pipestone-area cattle producers to maintain compliance with industry standards and ensure continued market access for their beef products.