Beef cattle transporters are receiving notice from major packers reminding them to renew their Beef Quality Assurance Transportation certificate. To help them renew or obtain new certification, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will offer BQAT trainings across northwest Iowa. Extension beef specialist Beth Doran is organizing these trainings.
“BQAT certification was initiated several years ago by major packers,” Doran said. “The packers require custom truckers and producers hauling cattle with their own semi or trailer to have a current BQAT card. The objectives are human safety, animal comfort and transportation protocols to help provide a high-quality product for the consumer.