Raising goats organically is possible and can add value and revenue
to your farm. To raise goats organically, your operation must be organically
certified. Organically raised animals should have access to fresh water and
outdoor pastures equipped with shade and shelters. However, pastures must
be free from chemical fertilizers or pesticides for three years. Processing and
application of manure as fertilizer should be such that nutrient recycling is
optimized.

According to the USDA Organic Program, livestock produced organically
must be managed according to the USDA organic standards from last third of
gestation. Livestock feeds must be 100% organic. Feeds such as vitamin and
mineral supplements are acceptable. Use of hormones and antibiotics are not
permitted in an organically raised animal production unit. However, use of
vaccines as preventive management practices is allowed. Animals that are
sick or injured and need antibiotic or other prohibited medication should be
treated accordingly; however, their meat will not be sold as an organic product.

Locating a veterinarian who specializes in organic health management is
advisable; however, goat owners in general use home remedies to prevent or
cure diseases more than other livestock owners since there are fewer drugs
made or approved for goats.

A common method of parasite control is the use of diatomaceous earth.
This product can be used as a feed ingredient and is claimed to be effective
for this purpose. Diatomaceous earth is also used externally as a dust for lice.
Animals should be managed under minimum stress and disease conditions;
the farm setting should accommodate natural animal behavior. For more
information regarding organic goat production, please visit the USDA Organic
Program website (http://www.ams.usda.gov/nop/indexIE.htm).

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