MONTAGUE, MI (JULY 21, 2021)—The sheep at The Pasturage, LLC are now Certified Animal Welfare Approved by A Greener World (AGW)—North America’s most trusted and transparent farm certifier.
One of a portfolio of leading farm certifications offered by A Greener World, the Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW label lets consumers know animals are raised outdoors on pasture or range in accordance with the highest animal welfare standards in the U.S. and Canada, using sustainable agriculture methods on an independent farm. Consumer Reports has rated Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW as the only “highly meaningful” label for farm animal welfare, outdoor access and sustainability—and the only animal welfare certification in which they have confidence.
Julie Engel’s sheep are also Certified Grassfed by AGW. Certified Grassfed by AGW is an optional, additional accreditation for Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW farmers and ranchers raising cattle, sheep, goats or bison according to the Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW high-welfare standards and a 100 percent grassfed feeding protocol. The Pasturage, LLC is the first farming business in Oceana County to be Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW and Certified Grassfed by AGW for sheep.
At The Pasturage, LLC the sheep graze one section of pasture before being moved to fresh fields. Practicing rotational grazing is a foundational part of their management, as it allows grass to recover before sheep return to graze again, and keeps the soil properly fertilized and minimizes the build-up of internal parasites, thereby avoiding reliance on chemical treatments. Julie Engel chose to pursue Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW and Certified Grassfed by AGW certifications because she felt the programs best mirrored her exemplary animal husbandry practices and commitment to sustainability.
AGW Executive Director Emily Moose says,
“In a marketplace crowded with misinformation and greenwashing, trusted third-party certifications like Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW and Certified Grassfed by AGW deliver real transparency for farmers and consumers. We’re proud to work with farmers and ranchers like The Pasturage, LLC to promote their high-quality products and sustainable farming practices.”
The Pasturage, LLC Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW, Certified Grassfed by AGW lamb is sold direct from the farm. Their products are also available at the Muskegon Farmers' Market on Saturdays at stall 148. For more information about The Pasturage, LLC, or to place an order, contact Julie Engel by calling (231) 288-6112.
