Grass Fed Small and Very Small Producer Program

Grass Fed Small and Very Small Producer Program

 

What is this program?

Small-scale cattle and sheep producers certified under this program receive a certificate that allows them to market cattle and sheep as USDA Certified grass-fed.

 

How can I use this program?

• Allows producers to market livestock at higher prices and increase profit
• Provides the ability to buy and sell from other “USDA Certified Grass Fed” operations 

 

Who or what is eligible and what are the eligibility requirements?

• Producers must be marketing more than 49 cattle/year or lambs produced from more than 99 ewes annually
• Ruminant animals can only be fed grass and forage, apart from milk consumed prior to weaning
• Animals cannot be fed grain or grain by-products and must have continuous pasture access during the growing season

 

Are there any deadlines?

No, applications are accepted at any time. 

 

Is there anything else I should know?

• The cost for the certification review service is a set fee of $165.00/hour
• The approval duration is for a two-year period

 

How do I apply?

All forms should be completed and submitted by email to QAD.auditservice@ams.usda.gov or by fax to (501) 227-4114.

Contact the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) main office at (202) 720-3271 with additional questions.

 

 

 

Page last updated: January 29, 2024