Progressive Beef, a cattle management and sustainability program for feedlot operators, was recognized last week by the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB) for demonstrating successful alignment with the industry’s sustainability framework.
To receive this recognition from USRSB, the Progressive Beef program showed how the collective focus on sustainability benefits both the beef industry and consumers. In order to become a Progressive Beef certified feedyard, operators and employees must be trained on critical areas including cattle care, water usage, energy usage and food safety. All Progressive Beef certified feedyards must also adhere to standard operating procedures, many of which are centered on sustainability and social responsibility and are verified annually by independent USDA-approved third-party auditors. The Progressive Beef program continues to grow: In 2020, there will be more than three million cattle marketed through the program. There are currently 48 yards certified or in the process of becoming certified and participation has doubled in the last year.