APPPA

 

ON THE MOVE SINCE 1997

The History of APPPA

The American Pastured Poultry Producers Association (APPPA) was founded in 1997 with the goal of supporting the development and sharing of knowledge about pasture-raised poultry production across North America. This model emphasizes outdoor poultry management with regular movement to fresh pastures, fostering healthier environments for birds and improving soil quality.

APPPA began as a platform for collaboration, empowering both producers and consumers with resources to promote humane, pasture-based poultry practices.

APPPA was formally incorporated on June 25, 1998, establishing itself as a nonprofit organization committed to fostering sustainable poultry production and reducing reliance on industrial farming models​.

 

APPPA History | Established 1997

APPPA Milestones

APPPA has a rich history educating, promoting, and advocating for pastured poultry. Here are some key milestones in APPPA’s history:

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1997 – APPPA Grit

In its founding year, APPPA began publishing APPPA Grit, a bi-monthly publication that has become a valuable resource for the community, offering technical guidance, industry insights, and stories from members​.

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2003 – Online Discussion Group

APPPA’s Online Discussion Group, an interactive platform that allows members to exchange ideas, share experiences, and support each other, was introduced in 2003 helping to further strengthen the network of producers across the country​.
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2017 – Inaugural APPPA Conference

APPPA’s first formal conference was held in 2017, creating an important space for producers to connect, learn, and tackle industry challenges. This annual event has since grown into a cornerstone gathering for knowledge exchange and community building​.
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2017 – Inaugural APPPA Conference

APPPA’s first formal conference was held in 2017, creating an important space for producers to connect, learn, and tackle industry challenges. This annual event has since grown into a cornerstone gathering for knowledge exchange and community building​.
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2020 – Get Real Chicken

To counter misleading marketing and increase consumer awareness, APPPA introduced the Get Real Chicken campaign. This initiative educates consumers about the unique benefits of pastured poultry, emphasizing honest communication between farmers and consumers.
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2021 – Heritage Poultry Breeders

In 2020, APPPA merged with Heritage Poultry Breeders, expanding the organization’s scope to include Heritage poultry, supporting breed diversity, and offering new resources for members interested in breeding Heritage poultry​.
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2022 – Lifetime Achievement Award

APPPA introduced the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the pastured poultry movement, inspiring members and advancing sustainable practices​.
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2023 – AGA Pastured Poultry Layer Standards

In collaboration with the American Grassfed Association (AGA), APPPA contributed to the creation of the AGA Pastured Poultry Layer Standards. These standards provide a transparent framework for identifying truly pasture-raised eggs, supporting both producers and consumers​.
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Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Regenerative Agriculture

​APPPA remains committed to advancing sustainable, regenerative poultry farming. By supporting education, advocacy, and collaborative innovation, APPPA envisions a future where pastured poultry is widely accessible, contributing to a resilient, ethical food system.

APPPA Galllery

ABOUT APPPA

The American Pastured Poultry Producers Association (APPPA) advocates for the viability of ethical pastured poultry production that connects farmers, processors, and consumers in a mutually beneficial community.

APPPA

P.O. Box 142
O'Brien, FL 32071
(888) 662-7772
CONTACT APPPA

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