There are many factors to consider before deciding to raise livestock. Whether it’s a small poultry flock for egg production, or a commercial herd of beef cattle, there are regulations and standards that must be met to ensure the health and safety of your animals, and to determine if and where you will be able to sell your final product.

Other factors to consider include: what type of housing will your animals need? What will you feed them and where will you source/store it? What type of infrastructure will you need for manure management, etc.? What type of processing support will be necessary (i.e. abattoirs, dairies, etc.)?

This module will give you an overview of several different livestock systems and help you decide if raising livestock is the right fit for you.

Please visit the National Farm Animal Care Council website for the codes of practice for each livestock group.