From: becky@lambandwool.com
Sent: Monday, August 07, 2006 11:04 PM
To: MarketingClaim
Subject: Grassfed standards comment (LS-05-09)



Chief, Standardization Branch
7 August 2006
Livestock and Seed Program, AMS, USDA
Room 2607-S, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20250-0254


RE: Proposed Rule for the United States Standard for Livestock and Meat
Marketing Claim, Grass (Forage) Fed Claim published in the Federal Register on
May 12, 2006 [Docket No. LS-05-09]


Dear Sir:

I want to express my support for a strong 99% grassfed standard.     There
is no point in instituting any USDA label if it does not meaningfully represent
the straightforward consumer expectations of its name.  Anything less will
diminish USDA, and will divert benefits away from the innovative farmers and
researchers who have tested and demonstrated the real meaning of grassfed meat
and milk production.

It is equally important that the distinction of pasture-raised and
free-range has clarity and integrity.   It would be better to have no
standards that to have standards that are deceitful or confusing.

Sincerely,


Becky Weed
Thirteen Mile Lamb & Wool Company