What is the PA Beef Biosecurity Certification?
A voluntary program designed to prepare beef producers for rapid response in the event of a new or foreign animal disease outbreak. This certification ensures proactive protection of cattle health, public safety, and continuity of business.
Why Get Certified?
Return on Investment (ROI) for Producers:
- Priority Movement Permits: Certified producers are flagged in the PDA system for first approval of biosecurity plans and cattle movement permits during disease outbreaks.
- Health & Safety Assurance: Certification ensures the producer is trained in practical biosecurity practices that protect both livestock and human health.
- Industry Leadership: Certification highlights the producer’s commitment to responsible agriculture and elevates credibility with buyers, regulators, and the public.
Personalized Farm Certification
Certified producers gain access to one-on-one support from trained biosecurity professionals who help evaluate and improve the farm’s current biosecurity level.
Certification Requirements
To earn certification, producers must:
- Hold a current BQA certification
- Complete the BQA Biosecurity module
- Develop a written farm-specific biosecurity plan – following the BQA Daily Biosecurity Plan For Disease Prevention Booklet
- Have the plan reviewed and approved by PDA and PA BQA
- Submit a signed PA BQA Biosecurity Letter from their veterinarian, confirming shared agreement on biosecurity protocols
- Producers are subject to an on-site Biosecurity Evaluation, which follows self-assessment, to gauge their preparedness. Should a high-risk disease pressure be detected, all participants are subject to an on-site evaluation.
Program Oversight
- PA BQA: Manages certification and recertification
- PDA: Manages priority flagging of certified producers for emergency permitting