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Hi I'm Leslie

I'm a full-time farmer in Western Wisconsin where I raise meat goats and sheep on pasture using regenerative and rotational grazing practices.

I created this website because
I had so many people reaching out, both locally and beyond, wanting to know more about how I was raising and marketing goats.

I also recognized that it IS so hard to find information in this space. I wanted to share what I've learned along the way and reduce your time searching the depths of the internet.

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December 23, 2025

Directory: State Departments of Ag for meat processing questions

Last reviewed: September 2025
This page is reviewed periodically as agency structures and program oversight change. Because of this, links may change over time before we are able to make updates on our end.

If you’re new to meat processing regulations or want a clearer overview of how inspection type affects what’s legal, start with this article: Goat meat processing: What’s legal and what’s not. Custom-exempt and on-farm slaughter considerations are also covered there.

This directory is designed to be a starting point for learning about your state regulations for meat processing for not just state inspected meat, but also any further rules and regulations related to custom-exempt processing, on farm-slaughter and processing rules, and live animal sales for meat.


This page is intended to help you get to the right office faster. Once you identify the correct agency, contact them directly to confirm what is allowed for your specific situation and goals.

Important notes before using the directory

  • Agency structure and enforcement vary by state.
  • Regulations related to meat inspection, custom-exempt processing, and on-farm processing can differ widely, even between neighboring states.

Farmers should always verify current requirements directly with the appropriate state or federal authority before selling meat or proceeding with on-farm processing.

State agency directory

Below you’ll find a listing of all 50 State Departments of Agriculture categorized by state alphabetically. Each state will include the specific department name and link to the respective agency. Once you click through look for contact information for farmers or inspection programs to help you get started in finding the right division or contact to help answer your questions.

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Regulations and enforcement may change. Farmers should always confirm requirements directly with their state department of agriculture or meat inspection authority before selling meat.

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Legal disclaimer: All information provided is based on personal experience and is provided for educational and information use only. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless our website, company and owner for any direct or indirect loss or conduct incurred as a result of your use of our website and any related communications. This applies to, but is not limited to, business operational information and consulting, as well as farm and goat management practices.Any animal health information provided on this website is based on personal experience or information provided by others whose treatments and practices have been discussed with a veterinarian. In all situations, it is the responsibility of the livestock owner to consult with a veterinarian before using any animal health practices shared on this website or by this company and its owner. See the full legal disclaimer here.