In order to serve as a resource for both producers and consumers of grassfed livestock products, The Southwest Grassfed Livestock Alliance (SWGLA - pronounced "Swigla") was formed in April 2003 at the Quivira Coalition's 3rd Annual Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. 

SWGLA is an alliance of producers, consumers, land managers, conservationists, and researchers. Our organization seeks to improve human, ecological and animal health, and strengthen local agricultural communities by educating producers and the public about grassfed livestock products. 

SWGLA represents over 1000 family farms and ranches in the four-corner states (NM, AZ, UT and CO). Our producers raise livestock in open pastures where the animals forage freely, without the addition of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics or animal byproducts. The livestock are raised using humane methods and are not crowded into small feedlots or cages.  Product labels and designations vary and may include “certified organic”, “grassfed”, “grass-finished”, “natural lean beef”, “pasture-raised”, “real chickens”, “free range”, “pasture finished”, “ ”sustainable” and “holistically raised”. Most of our producers raise cattle, but some raise sheep, chickens, goats and other livestock. 

Funding for SWGLA’s educational outreach is currently provided by the Washington State University Western Center for Risk Management Education, the USDA Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service (CSREES), and Risk Management Agency. 

SWGLA members receive quarterly updates on grassfed livestock issues and events.  To become a member of SWGLA or to donate to the organization, please contact Laurie Bower, Director at 505-231-3467 or