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Beef Cattle Programs

Retained Ownership Program

Virginia ROP offers cow-calf producers an opportunity to learn more about the performance and profitability of their cattle through a cooperative feed-out program in conjunction with feed yards in Iowa. Extension coordinates the program, facilitates collection of data, and provides the educational component.

Premium Assured Heifer Program

The VPAHP exists to provides a template for the proper development and management of beef females. Heifers are certified for health, reproductive and physical soundness, along with genetics.

Virginia Beef Quality Assurance Program

As part of the Mid-Atlantic BQA program, Virginia BQA educates and certifies producers in best management practices that improve the safety and quality of beef.

Virginia Beef Cattle Improvement Association

Since 1955, Virginia BCIA in partnership with Extension has worked to enhance the genetics of Virginia beef cattle herds. BCIA sponsors the state’s central bull development program and serves as an educational conduit to the beef cattle industry.

Virginia Master Cattleman Program

This is a seven-session course that provides essential information for beef producers in the areas of economics, nutrition, forages, reproduction, genetics, herd health, and marketing.  The program is offered on an area basis by local Virginia Cooperative Extension agents and is taught by local agents and Virginia Tech specialists.

Virginia Quality Assured Feeder Cattle

Extension partners with the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association and local cattlemen’s associations for the VQA program which encourages the use of scientifically-based cattle health and management procedures for feeder cattle. Producers that manage their cattle utilizing the VQA guidelines are eligible to market their calves through the VQA certified feeder cattle program.