The BEEF 509 program is a fast-paced educational program featuring classroom lectures, and hands-on learning sessions and activities.  Participants will have the opportunity to track an animal from an auction market to a beef product on a plate.  The BEEF 509 program is designed to raise the awareness level about the production of beef as a food, and the reasons why it sometimes misses its mark with consumers’ palates and producers’ pocketbooks.

The BEEF 509 dates have been set for Saturday, February 20 and Saturday, February 27, 2016.  It will take place on two consecutive Saturdays in February at the OSU Animal Sciences Building in Columbus.  In this format, all the same information and activities that were included in more days in previous 509 programs will be covered in this timeframe. It will be critical to attend each session as participants will be assigned to teams that will work together for each day of the program. The live animal evaluation, auction and grid discussion will take place on February 20. Carcass grading and fabrication are among the activities planned for February 27.

A maximum of 32 spaces will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Early registration is advised as typically spaces are quickly filled.  If interest in BEEF 509 exceeds the 32 spaces provided, names will be held and applicants will be notified of upcoming sessions. The registration fee for each BEEF 509 participant is $150. The program is the result of a partnership with the Ohio Beef Council, The Ohio State University Extension, and The Ohio State University Department of Animal Sciences. These entities will be funding all remaining costs associated with the BEEF 509 program.

For more information, or to request a registration form, email Emily Jackson at ejackson@ohiobeef.org or beef@ohiobeef.org or contact by phone at: 614-873-6736.