By Blake Jackson
Winners of the 2026 Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Awards were revealed during CattleCon 2026, held this year in Nashville. These annual awards honor beef and dairy producers, marketers and educators who consistently demonstrate high standards of animal care and handling in their daily operations.
“BQA continues to be the cattle industry’s leading education program for animal care and handling,” said Buck Wehrbein, NCBA president. “We are excited to recognize these award winners who exemplify the BQA program and share their commitment with others.”
Among the 2026 honorees, Singing Brook Farms of Imler, Pennsylvania, received the 2026 BQA Dairy FARM Award. Established in 1951, the family-run dairy manages a herd of approximately 300 cows, raises 250 replacement heifers and operates across nearly 3,000 acres.
The farm integrates BQA and FARM animal care guidelines throughout its management practices, using them as a foundation for both animal welfare and business decision-making.
By following these nationally recognized standards, Singing Brook Farms focuses on maintaining cattle health, improving productivity and supporting long-term financial viability. Ongoing employee training and detailed recordkeeping play a central role in ensuring consistent care and accountability across the operation.
The national BQA Awards are sponsored by Cargill and Sam’s Club. Winners are chosen by a selection committee made up of BQA-certified representatives from universities, state beef councils, sponsors and industry partners, who evaluate nominees based on leadership, service and dedication to advancing BQA principles across the cattle industry.
Photo Credit: national-cattleman-s-beef-association
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Beef Cattle