OPT Grass-Fed Organic Certification Application
What To Know About Applying For OPT Grass-Fed Organic Certification
Summary: Oregon Tilth offers OPT Certified Grass-Fed Organic certification in partnership with the Organic Plus Trust (OPT). This optional program is for certified organic farmers and handlers who emphasize pasture-based feeding and animal welfare, while limiting grain use.
The application fee is a flat $350, in addition to your regular organic certification fees. Forms must be submitted to your Oregon Tilth client service team.
What Is OPT Grass-Fed Organic Certification?
OPT Grass-Fed Organic is a voluntary certification that builds upon USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requirements. It recognizes farms and businesses that:
- Maximize pasture grazing
- Limit or eliminate grain-based feeds
- Promote high animal welfare standards
This certification helps differentiate your livestock products in the marketplace as fully pasture-based and aligned with animal well-being practices.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for OPT Grass-Fed Organic certification, you must:
- Be certified organic under the USDA NOP by Oregon Tilth (or apply for both certifications together)
- Produce or handle livestock or livestock products
- Commit to meeting additional grazing and feeding requirements
- Submit all required forms and documentation
Cost of Certification
There is a flat $350 fee to add OPT Grass-Fed Organic to your NOP certification. This is in addition to your annual organic certification and inspection costs.
Required Forms & Documents
To apply, download and complete the following:
- Universal OPT Grass-Fed System Application – Handling
- Universal OPT Grass-Fed System Plan – Livestock
- OPT Custom Grazing Affidavit
- OPT OTCO Policy Document
Submit all completed forms to your Oregon Tilth client service team.
Additional Requirements
While this page focuses on the application, note that OPT Grass-Fed Organic certification also includes:
- A minimum 150-day grazing season
- At least 60% of dry matter intake (DMI) from grazing
- Required participation in an approved animal welfare program (e.g., GAP, Certified Humane, FARM)
- Segregation and traceability of grass-fed products
- Annual inspections, typically coordinated with your organic inspection
For full program requirements, see:
Outdoor Access, Pasture and Grazing Requirements for Organic Livestock
Need Help?
Contact your Oregon Tilth certification team if you have questions about eligibility, forms, or the certification process. We’re here to help.