PHOTO | TODD JOHNSON
OQBN helps produce healthier, heavier, and higher-performing calves Jeff Robe grew up on a cow/ calf operation in a small town in Arkansas. He received a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arkansas and is now pursuing a master’s in animal science with a focus in ruminant nutrition at Oklahoma State University under the guidance of Paul Beck, animal science professor and Oklahoma Cooperative Extension beef specialist. In the summer of 2019, Robe also took on the role of program coordinator for the Oklahoma Quality Beef Network (OQBN). He manages the day to day operations of the program, which includes reaching out to producers, scheduling sales, 6
FALL 2019
and communicating with OQBN representatives. OQBN, a joint project of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service and the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, is a network of beef producers, educators, veterinarians, and industry professionals committed to increasing producers’ access to value-added marketing opportunities. “OQBN aims to promote the production of healthier, heavier calves while maintaining for the producer and the buyer,” Robe said. OQBN provides members of the beef industry with education and tools while increasing their access to value-
added programs. These programs include increased access to export markets, alignment with appropriate value-added cattle markets, individual animal identification and traceability, and verification for health management, age, source, genetics, and production systems. “Staying competitive in the market is an ongoing process, one that requires an evolution in practice to keep pace with changing times,” Robe said. “As consumer demands for greater product transparency increase, buyers are challenged with meeting these demands.” Over the past six months, Robe and Beck have worked together to create
