Master Beef Program | Williamson County

The Master Beef Producer program uses a combination of hands-on and classroom teaching to educate participants about all aspects of beef production. The program is designed for first time producers all the way to the seasoned veterans. Classes start at 5:30 pm unless noted.

Participants can sign up at any time as hands-on classes are offered year-round. Virtual classes are only offered in the fall. The cost of the program is $100 and certification is good for three years.

Registration

Payment

Class Schedule

Virtual Sessions 2024 (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
- September 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26
Hands-On Sessions
- AI & Pregnancy Checking (4-22-24)
- Multi-Species Grazing (6-12-24)
- Summer Weeds (7-9-24)
- Introduction and BQA Session (8-26-24)-Ag Park and Zoom
- Fall Planting (9-9-24)
- Precision Beef Field Day (9-24-24)
- Hay Selection (9-25-24)
- Working Cattle (10-21-24)
- Breeding Soundness Exam Clinic (10-26-24)
- Livestock Fecal Sampling (11-25-24)
- Equipment Calibration (1-22-25)
- Tractor Maintenance (1-27-25)
- Handling Facilities (2-1-25)
- Spring Pastures (3-26-25)

Q: What is the Master Beef Program?
A: The Master Beef Program is an educational program designed to provide a foundation of science-based and practical beef and environmental information.

Q: What can I receive with a Master’s certification?
A: Most importantly, education and hands-on experience in a variety of topic areas. Additionally, completing one of the Master’s programs qualifies you for Tennessee Ag Enhancement which is a state of Tennessee cost share program.

Q: What are the topics covered?
A: Topics change for each year’s program, but typically cover: Pasture Management, Reproduction, Genetics, Nutrition, Health, Marketing, Economics, Hot Topics.

Q: Do I have to own a certain number of cattle to participate?
A: No, the program is designed for those interested in future ownership, 0-29 head, and 30 and over. First time producers and generational producers will all learn.

Q: How long is the Master Beef Program?
A: The program is anywhere from 8-22 classes in which the participant is required to attend a minimum of 7 classes to receive certification. Selection and attendance is entirely up to the participant.

Q: What is the format of the program?
A: The program is designed to meet the needs and schedule demands of all participants. The program is a combination of hands-on, on-farm, classroom, and virtual Zoom presentations.

Q: When does the program take place?
A: Participants can sign up at any time as hands-on classes are offered year-round. Virtual classes are only offered in the fall. If a participant signs up August-December, they will qualify for the 2023 program year. If a participants signs up January-July 2024, their classes will count towards the 2024 program year.

Q: What time does the class start and how long is it?
A: Classes typically start at 5:30 pm and run 1.5 hours.

Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: The cost for the program is $100 for first time attendees and those seeking recertification.

Q: How often do I need to take the program to maintain TN Ag Enhancement certification?
A: Upon taking the course, certification is good for three years.

Contact Us

Matt Horsman
Extension Agent