From: deumberger@gwtc.net
Sent: Sunday, August 06, 2006 3:21 PM
To: MarketingClaim
Subject: Docket #LS-05-09 Grass (forage) fed claim



As a producer and consumer of grassfed beef, I support your proposed standards. 
However, a couple of issues need further clarification. 

In our area of the country it is necessary to feed stored forage for a good part
of the year.  I believe the best stored forage is grass that is  mechanically
harvested before grain is formed and properly cured and stored to maintain as
much “green” as possible.  Silage does not meet these “green” criteria. 

The second issue concerns “confinement.”  My livestock must be “confined” at all
times within the boundaries of my property or my neighbors and local law
enforcement seem to get upset, although we still have open range laws in this
part of SD.  There appears to be a consensus that grassfed cattle should not be
fed in “feedlot” situation but rather on pasture or range.  I agree but do not
want to define these terms as they will have different meanings for different
parts of the country.



I also believe that grassfed cattle should not have been fed any added hormones
or drugs.

                               

Dwaine Umberger