SIOUX CITY — Morningside University has launched Morningside-Raised Beef, a student-managed beef production enterprise.
Morningside-Raised Beef is part of the Regina Roth Applied Agricultural and Food Studies Department. It was created in collaboration with Eric Nelson Feedlot and Cherokee Locker to allow students to manage every stage of the beef value chain, according to a news release.
“Partnering with Morningside on this project is about preparing the next generation of beef producers,” said Eric Nelson, CEO of Eric Nelson Feedlot. “It’s exciting to see students gain direct experience with the management decisions that drive both herd performance and profitability. These are the skills that will set them apart in the industry.”
The program will give students the opportunity to manage every stage of the beef value chain—from feedlot oversight to processing, retail, and consumer engagement.
“For us, this collaboration is about showing students what happens beyond the feedlot,” said Dale Allen, CEO and owner of Cherokee Locker. “From USDA inspection to fabrication and quality grading, students see first-hand the standards required to bring safe, high-quality beef to market. It’s a unique opportunity to connect their classroom learning to real-world expectations while also supporting local beef.”
The new enterprise is partnered with a new four-credit beef production management course. The course immerses students in the practical and scientific aspects of beef production, including reproductive and nutritional strategies, herd health planning, genetic selection, and the application of Beef Quality Assurance principles, according to the news release.
Weekly site visits to the Morningside-Raised Beef feedlot and tours of a USDA-inspected locker provide students with first-hand insights into inspection processes, fabrication, carcass quality, and yield grading.
“For us, this collaboration is about showing students what happens beyond the feedlot,” said Dale Allen, CEO/Owner of Cherokee Locker. “From USDA inspection to fabrication and quality grading, students see first-hand the standards required to bring safe, high-quality beef to market. It’s a unique opportunity to connect their classroom learning to real-world expectations while also supporting local beef.”
The enterprise will officially kick off at Taste of Morningside, following the Homecoming football game on Oct. 4 at 3 p.m., where the Morningside Grill Masters will serve prime rib sandwiches and hamburgers, and debut Morningside-Raised Beef Sticks.
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Caitlin Yamada
Education and county government reporter
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