Organic Trade Association (OTA) is a membership-based business association that focuses on the organic business community in North America.
PO Box 547
Greenfield, MA 01302
413-774-7511
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Managing Livestock
Organic livestock management focuses on the health and well being of animals, people and the environment:
- Living conditions. Organic livestock producers must establish living conditions which take into consideration the health and natural behavior of the animals. They must provide them with access to pasture and the outdoors, and with clean, dry bedding.
- Preventive health. Animal health care in organic systems focuses on prevention, not treatment: reduced stress, good nutrition, sanitation, and smart breed selection. When treatment is necessary, allowed practices and substances are clearly defined.
- Environment. Organic producers must manage manure in ways that don't contaminate water, soil or crops. All of their feed must be grown organically. Pastures must also be certified organic.
- Human health. Organic producers are prohibited from using substances that might be harmful to humans, including growth hormones and antibiotics.
In the pages that follow, we give you access to a wealth of information to help you manage your organic livestock operation: approved healthcare practices, an incredible collection of resources on pasture and grazing, information on organic feed and where to find it, and much more. We've even put together a collection of articles that give you advice on managing specific livestock operations, from dairy to poultry.
Advice for Specific Operations | Animal Health | General Advice
Livestock Budgets | Manure Management | Organic Feed | Pasture and Grazing
Allowed and Prohibited Substances
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