Access a detailed version of our comprehensive standards in the documents below or reference this quick, at-a-glance overview of the key standards being met at each certification level to understand which level could be achievable for your farm or ranch.
Pasture based system with winter housing permitted (outdoor access still required)
Minimum space requirements; feedlots permitted for finishing only
SSpecific requirements for disbudding, weaning (avg 12 wks, 8 wks min), and castration
Transport duration must not exceed 12 hours
NO LEVEL 2 STANDARD FOR GOATS
NO LEVEL 3 STANDARD FOR GOATS
Pasture system; no feedlots permitted
Indoor housing permitted during winter, but must have unrestricted daily outdoor access
Specific requirements for disbudding, weaning (avg 12 wks, 8 wks min), and castration; low stress weaning method required
Transport duration must not exceed 12 hours
Continuous outdoor living on pasture
Low stress weaning method must be used (average age of 16 weeks, minimum 8 weeks)
No physical alterations allowed
Transport duration must not exceed 12 hours
Continuous outdoor living on pasture
Low stress weaning method must be used (average age of 16 weeks, minimum 8 weeks)
No physical alterations allowed
No transport time; entire life on farm
All levels of certification: No animal by-products | Every farm 3rd party audited every 15 months
Standards in green indicate a new or changed requirement from the previous certification level.
