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 The Southwest Grassfed Livestock Alliance SWGLA (pronounced "Swigla") is an alliance of producers, consumers, land managers, conservationists, and researchers that seeks to improve human, ecological and animal health, and strengthen local agricultural communities by educating producers, and the public about grassfed livestock products.
Why grassfed food?
According to author and researcher Jo Robinson, "When grazing animals are raised on their natural diet of grass instead of grain, their products are lower in bad fat and calories, but higher in potentially lifesaving good fats. Grass farming is healthier for animals, for farm families, for consumers, and for the planet."  .
SWGLA was formed in April 2003 at the Quivira Coalition's 3rd Annual Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Since that time SWGLA has grown into a dynamic organization that holds training workshops for ranchers, promotional meat tastings to educate consumers, and collaborates with many partner organizations on a variety of agriculture, health, environment and rural economic development issues facing the people of the Southwest.
Though many of its recent events have been held in New Mexico, SWGLA is committed to developing programs and initiatives that assist producers and inform consumers in Arizona, Utah, Colorado as well as New Mexico.
The organization is directed by a voluntary board comprised of ranchers and consumer advocates for healthy and locally produced food. It is currently staffed by Laurie Bower (info@SWGLA.org), who coordinates SWGLA's educational activities.
SWGLA is funded by a number of sources including its members, the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and numerous private and public foundations. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, memberships and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Memberships are $25 annually and entitle the member to a subscription to the SWGLA newsletter, updates on upcoming events, and other information of value to grass-fed enthusiasts.
To become a member, make your check payable to 'SWGLA' and mail it to our address:
SWGLA Accounting
1210 Louisa St. Suite 10,
Santa Fe, NM 87505
505-231-3467
Larger contributions are indeed welcome. For those interested in making a larger contribution or who simply want more information about SWGLA, please feel free to contact our Executive Director Laurie Bower at the email, phone, or postal address above.
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