Responsibility. Dedication. Pride in the ring.
Raising and showing livestock is one of the most recognized 4-H experiences, teaching youth the value of hard work, responsibility, and animal care. Gillespie County 4-H members have the opportunity to raise a variety of species - including cattle, sheep, goats, swine, and poultry—and showcase their projects at local, district, and state levels.
Through livestock projects, youth learn not only about animal science and industry practices, but also develop leadership, decision-making, and communication skills that last a lifetime.
Learning experiences focus on:
Understanding daily animal care, including feeding, watering, and housing
Learning proper animal health practices and recognizing signs of illness
Practicing grooming, fitting, and showmanship techniques
Developing skills in nutrition and feed management
Keeping accurate records of expenses, weights, and growth
Exploring genetics, selection, and breeding decisions
Building responsibility, time management, and discipline
Purchase Period: March - June
Validation: June
Project Opportunities:
Raising Purebred/Commercial Cattle
Showing - County, District, State Levels
Hill Country Commercial Heifer Show
Beef Skillaton (Fort Worth Beef Heifer Challenge)
Purchase Period: March - October
Validation:
State Fair of Texas: June
County & Spring Majors: October
Project Opportunities:
Raising Purebred/Commercial Sheep and Goats
Showing - County, District, State Levels
Sheep & Goat Skillaton
Wool & Mohair Judging
Purchase Period: July - November
Validation:
State Fair of Texas: June
County & Spring Majors: November
Project Opportunities:
Raising Swine
Showing - County, District, State Levels
Swine Skillaton
For more information about poultry ordering and timelines please visit the poultry page!
Poultry Page
Project Opportunities:
Raising Laying Hens
Showing - County, District, State Levels
Poultry Judging
Focused on quality assurance and character education, 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. Quality Counts helps youth exhibitors learn the importance of using proper livestock management practices so that food quality and safety are preserved.
Important notes:
Each student must register individually. Family registration/verification is not allowed.
Info entered into registration must match that provided in the course. Otherwise, the verified number will not populate.
Reminder, you will not receive your Quality Counts number until you complete and pass the course and exam.
Youth must take and pass course as a:
Junior (3rd - 5th grade)
Intermediate (6th - 8th grade)
Senior (9th - 12th grade)
Unfortunately, we are unable to assist families with technical difficulties at the local level.
Technical Issues or login Information Contact: learnonline@ag.tamu.edu
Please include the student's name and email address used for the course in the email.
Livestock Resources: