Setting a goal is not the main thing. It is deciding how you will go about achieving it and staying with that plan.

-Tom Landry

Welcome to "Quality Counts." This curriculum was developed through a partnership between Texas Cooperative Extension and the Texas FFA. We are pleased to offer this comprehensive program to all 4-H and FFA members in Texas who are involved in the youth livestock program.

Texas has the largest number of 4-H and FFA livestock projects in the nation. Young people participate at the county, district, regional and state level. The tremendous support and dedication of livestock show officials help make this possible.

With this opportunity comes a responsibility for each exhibitor to learn and demonstrate the highest standards, both in personal character and in the feeding and care of their animals. "Quality Counts" is designed to teach young people the importance of displaying good character in carrying out livestock projects, and in every aspect of their lives. This curriculum will also help them learn the importance of using proper livestock management practices so that food quality and safety are preserved.

Your participation helps ensure that Texas 4-H and FFA members can continue to be a part of the greatest youth livestock program in the nation.

Sincerely,

Kyle L. Smith, Associate Director-County Programs, Texas Cooperative Extension

Terry Phillips, Executive Program Director-Agriculutural Science Education, Texas Education Agency