Beef Quality Assurance Awards

NAtional Beef Quality Assurance Awards

The National BQA Award recognizes outstanding beef and dairy producers, marketers, and educators that best demonstrate animal care and handling principles as part of the day-to-day activities on their respective operations. A common trait among all contest entrants must be a strong desire to continually improve BQA on their operations while encouraging others to implement the producer education program.

How are winners selected?

National BQA award winners are selected by a committee of representatives from universities, state beef councils and affiliated groups. Nominations can be submitted by any organization, group, or individual on behalf of a U.S. beef producer. Individuals and families may not nominate themselves, however, the nominees are expected to be involved in the preparation of the application.

Five National BQA Awards (Cow-Calf, Feedyard, Dairy, Marketer and Educator) are funded in part by The Beef Checkoff program with additional financial support provided by Cargill Meat Solutions. The program promotes beef quality assurance in all segments of the industry, including commercial cow-calf, seedstock, stocker operators, feedlots and dairy operations.

2026 Beef Quality Assurance Award Winners

Cow Calf Award

East foundation ranches llc, texas

The ranch’s commitment to education takes efforts far beyond their own gates. The East Foundation Ranches openness to research allows for even greater learnings. By integrating BQA practices with their broader stewardship mission, the East Foundation Ranch provides assurance that every bite of beef meets the highest standards of quality and integrity. This holistic approach bridges the gap from ranch to dinner table, reinforcing trust in the product they produce, and embodying “the right way is the only way.”

Feedyard Award

ordway cattle feeders, colorado

The Larson family has been a partner in Ordway Cattle Feeders since 1996, and Luke Larson is currently the CEO. Larson and his partners are keenly focused on getting back to the basics and concentrating on details. An important part of Ordway Cattle Feeders’ modern-day approach to success in cattle feeding is its commitment to BQA, which is part of the company’s culture. Their commitment to BQA includes requiring regular training for all employees as well as participating in BQA assessments and enhancing their handling facilities for cattle care and stockmanship purposes.

Dairy Award

singing brook farms, pennsylvania

BQA and FARM animal care standards are crucial components within the operations of Singing Brook Farms, shaping their unique production environment and business structure. By adhering to these standards, the farm aims to achieve optimal animal welfare, higher productivity and financial sustainability. These standards emphasize continual employee training and meticulous record keeping ensuring the well-being of the cattle and the overall success of the dairy operation.

Marketer Award

sysco corporation, texas

The company is dedicated to driving improved animal welfare practices while upholding stringent standards for all Sysco Brand animal products. Part of this commitment is driving awareness of BQA and making it the standard with their sales team for discussing cattle care and sustainability with chefs and restaurant customers. “The consumer is hungry for the steak, but they are also hungry for the story behind the steak,” explains Sysco’s Vice President of Merchandising Joe Don Eilers. “We believe the BQA program is instrumental in telling that story.”

Educator Award

jerry yates, west virginia

Born and raised in West Virginia on a small Jersey dairy farm, Jerry Yates was an active member of 4-H and FFA growing up. He graduated with a degree in animal science from West Virginia University and worked as an Ohio extension agent before returning home to manage one of WVU’s research units. For nearly three decades, Jerry has been involved with BQA, and his greatest passion is helping producers improve their operations through implementation of BQA practices.