Introduction
The purpose of this form is to provide you information that may affect your decision as to whether or not to participate in this research study. If you decide to participate in this study, this form will also be used to provide you with relevant information about the study.
You are being asked to participate in a research project to study Texas 4-H and FFA livestock projects. This study will investigate the size, scope, trends and perceptions surrounding the livestock project area. You were chosen for this survey based on you status as a livestock exhibitor in Texas.
What will I be asked to do?
If you agree to participate in this study, you will be asked to complete an online survey in which we will ask you questions about your perceptions and attitudes associated with livestock projects in your county. This study will take no more than 30 minutes to complete. To be best prepared to answer questions in this survey, you will need information such as purchase price of your animals, costs of feed for your livestock, and costs of other supplies and expenses. Having these figures available will expedite your experience in completing this survey. Please keep in mind we are concerned with averages and estimates related to these costs.
What are the risks involved in this study?
The risks associated in this study are minimal, and are not greater than risks ordinarily encountered in daily life.
What are the possible benefits of this study?
You will receive no direct benefit from participating in this study; however, data garnered from this study will provide useful information that will be used to improve Texas 4-H and FFA Livestock Projects for the benefit of future participants and ultimately gain further support of the program.
Do I have to participate?
No. Your participation is voluntary. You may decide not to participate or to withdraw at any time without your current or future relations with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service being affected.
Who will know about my participation in this research study?
This study is confidential. The records for this study will be kept private. No identifiers linking you to this study will be included in any sort of report that might be published. Research records will be stored securely and only research personnel will have access to the records.
Whom do I contact with questions about the research?
If you have questions regarding this study, you may contact Dottie Goebel at 979-862-8919 or dottie.goebel@ag.tamu.edu
Whom do I contact about my rights as a research participant?
This research study has been reviewed by the Human Subjects’ Protection Program and/or the Institutional Review Board at Texas A&M University. For questions about your rights as a research participant; or if you have questions, complaints, or concerns about the research, you may contact the Texas A&M University Human Subjects Protection Program at (979) 458-4067, toll-free at 1-855-795-8636, or email at irb@tamu.edu.