?Quality is the Key?

October 2004 -- The Sheep Safety Quality Assurance (SSQA) program, developed by the American Sheep Industry Association, in conjunction with Colorado State University, works to ensure maximum consumer confidence in products generated by the U.S. sheep industry. SSQA utilizes research and education to improve management during the production of safe and high-quality sheep products.

Educators and others interested in teaching growers and feeders and helping them to implement a quality assurance program in their operation are invited to participate in a newly scheduled "Train-the-Trainer" session. The two-day training will be held Oct. 12-13, 2004, in Fort Collins, Colo.

A one-day "Reviewer/Auditor" training will follow on Oct. 14 for those interested in officially certifying individuals who have successfully implemented all three levels of SSQA in their operations.

To register, contact Nancy Weiss at (970) 491-7604 before Oct. 1. The cost for the two-day training is $100 and includes three meals. There is an additional cost of $75 for those also attending the reviewer/auditor one-day training.

Accommodations have been secured at the Fort Collins Ramada Inn at a special $65 per-night rate. To make reservations, call (970) 484-4660 and mention code "ASI."