
Access a detailed version of our comprehensive standards in the documents below or reference this quick, at-a-glance overview of the key standards being met at each certification level to understand which level could be achievable for your farm or ranch.


Cattle on pasture except for finishing

Cattle must be protected from weather extremes

Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover

Specific requirements for weaning (6 mos min) and castration (6 mos max)

25-hr maximum transport time


Cattle on pasture except for finishing

Feedlots (for finishing) must have shade and other enrichments

Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover

Specific requirements for weaning (6 mos min) and castration (3 mos max)

16-hr maximum transport time

NO LEVEL 3 STANDARD FOR BEEF CATTLE


Cattle on pasture for 75% of life

No feedlots permitted

Pasture maintained with a minimum 50% vegetative cover

Specific requirements for weaning (6 mos min) and castration (3 mos max)

16-hr maximum transport time


Cattle always on pasture

No feedlots permitted

Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover

Fenceline or 2-stage weaning required; minimum age 8 months

No physical alterations allowed

8-hr maximum transport time


Cattle always on pasture

No feedlots permitted

Pasture maintained with a minimum 75% vegetative cover

Natural weaning required

No physical alterations allowed

No transport time; entire life on farm
All levels of certification: No antibiotics ever | No added growth hormones | No animal by-products | Every farm 3rd party audited every 15 months
Standards in green indicate a new or changed requirement from the previous certification level.