The Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program is designed to provide targeted educational presentations and hands-on demonstrations for a broad scope of topic areas in beef cattle production. Our objective is to provide Tennessee cattle producers with information and experience that can improve profitability while simultaneously making more efficient and sustainable use of natural resources.
UT Extension Specialists in beef and forage production are currently working with the 
U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef to help cattle producers evaluate how their current management practices impact their ability to continue profitable cattle farming for future generations. We are working together to ensure that cow-calf producers have a voice in describing sustainability and are prepared for a beef market that rewards sustainably produced calves. Then, provide training in the areas that need additional attention to improve economic, generational, and natural resource sustainability. Program topics include:
- Beef Product
- Economics and Budgeting
- Facilities and Cattle Handling
- Forages
- Genetic Selection
- Health
- Marketing and Business Management
- Nutrition
- Reproduction
Benefits include networking opportunities with other producers, educators, researchers, and industry representatives. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture supports the Master Beef Producer program and uses it as the educational component of their Tennessee Agriculture Enhancement cost-share program. Upon completing the program requirements, graduates receive a farm sign, cap, and certificate.
This is a county-based program delivered by UT Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Agents tailored to the specific needs of local environments within the state.
