How to Calculate Dry Matter Intake (DMI) from Pasture for Organic Dairy Operations TLDR:Calculating Dry Matter Intake (DMI) from pasture is essential for organic dairy farms to meet USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requirements. Lactating dairy cows must get at least 30% of their DMI from pasture during the grazing season. This article explains how … Continued

What To Know About Applying For OPT Grass-Fed Organic Certification TLDR: 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, … Continued

Transitioning Livestock to Organic: What You Need To Know TLDR: You can transition a conventional dairy herd to organic one time only, with 365 days of continuous organic management. Poultry must be raised organically from day two of life. Slaughter stock and previously organic animals cannot be re-transitioned if organic status is lost. Your feed, … Continued

What To Know About Your Livestock Organic System Plan (OSP) TLDR: The Livestock Organic System Plan (OSP) is your farm or business blueprint for raising, managing, and marketing organic animals. To stay in compliance with USDA organic standards, you must keep your OSP up to date. Below you’ll find blank livestock OSP forms, guidance documents, … Continued