The Tinian Cattlemen’s Association partnered with the University of Hawaii in conducting a two-day Beef Quality Assurance certification training.
TINIAN — The Tinian Cattlemen’s Association is partnering with the University of Hawaii to offer a two-day Beef Quality Assurance or BCA certification training aimed at enhancing the productivity and sustainability of the island’s cattle industry. This workshop, conducted by experts from the University of Hawaii, focuses on improving herd health and cattle productivity through advanced management of soil and pastures, record-keeping, illness prevention, and proper nutrition.
By promoting practices that reduce stress in cattle, ranchers can also improve the overall quality of beef produced, ensuring healthier and more sustainable meat for consumers.
“This certification represents a step forward in promoting Tinian beef as a top-tier product,” said Jose Dela Cruz, president of the Tinian Cattlemen’s Association. “Our goal is to make Tinian a recognized name for quality, grass-fed beef, not just locally but globally. Consumers are increasingly looking for healthier, sustainable options, and we are excited to meet that demand.”
The BQA training is an activity of a $400,000 feasibility study grant from the CNMI’s CEDA program, which supports the development of the Tinian cattle industry and has laid the groundwork for improving production efficiency, infrastructure and business models.
“Ensuring food security in the CNMI is a priority, and this training brings us closer to that goal,” said Glen Fukumoto, a representative from the University of Hawaii involved in the training. “We are equipping local ranchers with the knowledge and tools to produce high-quality beef, reducing reliance on imported goods while strengthening the local economy.”
“This training is part of a nationwide effort to educate beef cattle producers on the process of producing safe, high quality beef cattle on the farm,” said Mele Oshiro, UH CTAHR Livestock Extension/Hawaii State BQA Coordinator. “As a collaborator on this grant, I am proud to offer this exceptional program to producers in Tinian.”
Across the U.S., grass-fed beef is highly sought after due to its health benefits, such as leaner cuts with higher levels of beneficial fatty acids. In addition, consumers appreciate the humane treatment that comes with raising cattle in natural, open pastures. As the saying goes: “You are what you eat,” and healthier cattle mean healthier food for the people of the CNMI.
With this certification, Tinian ranchers will be poised to meet growing demand for high-quality, grass-fed beef, both locally and in international markets.
