Iowa State University Beef Extension Specialist Receives Prestigious Beef Quality Assurance Educator Award

AMES, Iowa - The Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) proudly announced Dr. Chris Clark, Iowa State University (ISU) Beef Extension Specialist, as the recipient of the 2024 Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Educator Award at the 2024 Iowa Cattle Industry Convention in Ames, IA on Thursday, December 12th. 

The BQA Educator Award recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in promoting Beef Quality Assurance and supporting Iowa's beef industry. IBIC's partnership with the Iowa Beef Center's beef extension staff has been absolutely pivotal in making BQA certification accessible to producers across the state. The effort is further highlighted by Chris' outstanding efforts to make sure the content is fresh, practical and impactful for Iowa producers. "His producer-first mentality and attention to detail speaks volumes about his commitment to helping Iowa beef producers be successful," added Casey Anderson, State BQA Coordinator for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. 

A graduate of Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine (2004), Clark's journey in agriculture began on his family's Monroe County farm, where he developed his passion for beef cattle through 4-H projects. Dr. Clark joined ISU Extension in 2012, bringing a weal of experience to his role including a strong background in food animal medicine in private practice and time as an educator as well. 

In 2023 - 2024, Dr. Clark demonstrated exceptional leadership in volunteering to revitalized the BQA curriculum, coordinating with beef extension staff and the Iowa Beef Industry Council to enhance the program's educational materials. His efforts were instrumental in implementing a new approach to certification sessions in 2024, combining his veterinary expertise with practical, producer-focused education. His approach combines scientific expertise with practical application, ensuring that producers receive relevant, actionable information to enhance their operations' efficiency and sustainability. 

For more information about ISU Extension's beef programs or upcoming BQA certification meetings, please contact the Iowa Beef Center at [email protected] or visit http://www.iowabeefcenter.org. The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University in Ames, IA, serves as the university's  extension service to cattle producers. 

Beef Quality Assurance is a program that provides systematic information to U.S. beef producers on how good husbandry techniques can be coupled with their accepted scientific knowledge to raise cattle under optimum management conditions. Today, having an active BQA certification is more important than ever because the full beef supply chain is leveraging the program to ensure our commitment to food safety, cattle well-being, and beef quality. For more information on Iowa's BQA program and upcoming certification opportunities visit iabeef.org.