Date of Graduation

2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

Committee Chair

Robert A. Dailey

Abstract

Consumer confidence impacts agricultural markets. In response, many food industries have adopted cost-effective programs to reduce risk and offer third party verification of product quality. The purpose of this project was to implement the West Virginia Dairy Quality Assurance Program (WVDQAP) which promotes best management practices to produce high quality milk and meat products. This study surveyed dairy producers throughout the state, to establish the most effective method of program implementation. A manual was constructed and presented to producers at one of five meeting across the state. The manual focuses on the requirements a producer must follow to receive certification. The overall goal of the WVDQAP is to ensure that dairy farms in West Virginia remain profitable and sustainable to meet the needs of tomorrow’s consumer.

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