Beef Basics Home Courses

The Beef Basics program started in 1993 and was designed for beef producers, feed consultants and veterinarians wanting to learn more about beef production. Since then, more than 4,800 people from more than 40 states have used the Beef Basics courses to further their education. The courses are written by extension educators, extension specialists, producers and veterinarians and are producer-reviewed before being introduced to the public.

Each course is bound so that it will be a valuable reference. Each course is composed of lessons that have quizzes at the end to obtain feedback and to assure that the concepts are understood. Each participant that completes the quizzes for the course will receive a completion certificate.

Dr. Rich Lackaff of Bassett, NE., is a producer and a licensed veterinarian. Many of his friends and neighbors rely on his knowledge. Lackaff said he'd recommend the courses to any producer or veterinarian who wants to improve and learn. "It's hard for the average rancher to find this information, and this program is tailor-made for his needs," he said.

Purpose of the Courses

These courses are designed to assist you in making management decisions for improving profitability. They offer an opportunity to sharpen your cow/calf management skills without a large time commitment away from the office or home. You can learn within the comfort of your own home or office.

Many beef producers, veterinarians, and agribusiness people find it difficult to attend distant educational seminars. This course will allow you to expand your cow/calf management knowledge within the comfort of your home or office. Your involvement will be encouraged through answering questions on the lesson quizzes. After completing a lesson, participants take a short quiz, which is graded and returned by the extension educators.

Understand Your Business

It is important that you, as a beef producer, have confidence, competence, and direction to be a successful livestock producer. You will need to capitalize on your own unique resources and abilities.