Lesson 1: Basics
Overview
The challenges involved in transitioning to organic livestock management will depend a lot on how your current system is set up. Generally speaking, organic standards favor pasture-based systems, as they tend to be less input- intensive and place a strong emphasis on honoring the animals' natural behaviors. In fact, access to pasture is required for organic ruminants. The following steps can guide your transition to organic livestock production.*
1. Study the NOP Standards as they relate to livestock. Talk to your certifier about specific requirements.
2. Research organic livestock systems for the species you're interested in. Talk to other organic producers in your area or attend field days and conferences.
3. Assess your resources, including buildings, fences, pasture and cropland, labor, expertise and breed genetics. What changes will you need to make?
4. Design your organic livestock plan. Work it out on paper first. Make low-cost alterations first, saving more-significant investments for later, after you've gained more experience.
5. Make sure you have adequate pasture land. The NOP’s access to pasture rule requires 30 percent of Dry Matter Intake (DMI) for a minimum of 120 days. Access the online DMI calculation worksheet here.
6. Make sure you have a reliable source of organic feed. A good diet is critical to livestock health. Whether you raise your own feed or not, it's a good idea to have backup sources in case of an emergency.
7. Establish an appropriate recordkeeping system. You should be able to track each animal or flock from birth to slaughter (or sale), account for all feed produced or purchased, and document all health treatments.
8. Discontinue prohibited practices. For many farmers, transitioning involves culling animals that seem to be susceptible to health problems such as lice or parasites. But giving up conventional veterinary medicines also means figuring out how to improve living and feeding conditions to foster good health among the herd or flock.
9. Take another look at your whole system to identify possible improvements, from breeding to manure management.
|
