Official Bylaws of the American Pasture Pig Society

ARTICLE I: NAME, PURPOSE, AND MISSION

SECTION 1.1 NAME

The official name of the organization shall be the American Pasture Pig Society™ (APPS). Formally known as the Idaho Pasture Pig Society (IPPS). Established in the state of Wisconsin in 2022. The official tagline for the organization is “The Practical Pasture Pig™”.

SECTION 1.2 PURPOSE

The purpose of the APPS is to develop the American Pasture Pig™ (APP) breed in alignment with the APPS Standard of Excellence and to promote and encourage quality breeding of APPS-registered APPs.

SECTION 1.3 MISSION

The mission of the APPS is to advance and stimulate both individual and collaborative efforts among its members through:

• Research and development of scientifically based genetic improvement programs.

• Enabling members to access valuable information for enhancing carcass merit and selecting optimal breeding stock.

• Protecting the APP breed and maintaining accurate records of lineage, DNA parentage, carcass traits, and production values.

• Increasing the value of APP genetics through APPS-sanctioned events.

• Providing access to high-quality APPS-registered APP semen.

• Offering education on care, feeding, marketing of pork, herd health, and value-added products.

• Promoting Certified APP Pork™ and its network of producers.

• Establishing an online presence and directory for all members in good standing.

• Creating opportunities for youth membership to support sustainability.

• Offering opportunities for the betterment of members’ farms and businesses.

ARTICLE II: BOARD OF DIRECTORS (BOD)

SECTION 2.1 CHAIN OF COMMAND

The Operations Director is the owner, founder, and registrar of the APPS, herein referred to as the APPS interchangeably. The BOD reports to the Operations Director. Committee Members report to the designated Director of the committee they are a part of.

SECTION 2.2 APPOINTMENT AND TERMS

BOD will be appointed by the Operations Director or may be nominated by the current APPS BOD for consideration by the Operations Director.

SECTION 2.3 PURPOSE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The APPS BOD is dedicated to supporting integrity and innovation within the APP community. Driven by values of fairness and respect, the BOD ensures that members uphold the welfare, integrity, and quality of the APP breed. By promoting responsible breeding and supporting both the APP and their breeders, the BOD fosters an environment where all members can proudly contribute to APP breed development. Each BOD member collaborates closely with the Operations Director and leads committees based on their specific roles and areas of expertise. Their key responsibilities include shaping policies, guiding strategic direction, promoting the APP breed, and addressing membership complaints, and appeals, all in alignment with the APPS bylaws.

SECTION 2.4 MEETINGS

The APPS BOD should schedule meetings at least quarterly. Special meetings may be called by any member of the BOD as needed. BOD should make every effort to assist with scheduling and attending meetings.

SECTION 2.5 REMOVAL

Any member of the BOD or committee(s), excluding the Operations Director, may be terminated or removed at any time by a simple majority vote of the BOD or by the Operations Director, with or without prior notice and without a formal hearing.

ARTICLE III: COMMITTEES AND APPOINTED POSITIONS

SECTION 3.1 APPOINTMENTS

The Operations Director may appoint members in good standing, or they may be nominated by the current APPS BOD for consideration by the Operations Director to assist with the needs of the APPS and its members. These individuals may be altered, replaced, or removed by a simple majority vote of the BOD, or by the Operations Director, with or without prior notice and without a formal hearing.

SECTION 3.2 STRUCTURE

1. Purpose

   Committees are established to support the APPS BOD by focusing on specific operational areas, such as breed standards, member relations, educational programs, etc. They gather insights, provide recommendations, and implement actions approved by the BOD.

2. Committee Roles and Membership

   The Committee Chair is appointed by the BOD and is responsible for leading meetings, coordinating tasks, and ensuring the committee meets its objectives while reporting to the BOD. The Vice Chair (if applicable) supports the Chair and assumes responsibilities in their absence. Committee Members are APPS members in good standing, appointed based on expertise, interest, or experience, and contribute to achieving the committee’s goals. The BOD Liaison is a BOD member assigned to each committee to provide guidance, ensure alignment with APPS goals, and facilitate communication between the committee and the BOD.

3. Responsibilities of Committees

   Committees are responsible for conducting research, gathering data, and making recommendations related to their focus area. They present proposals to the BOD for approval on new initiatives or modifications to existing programs. Committees also organize events, educational programs, or initiatives that align with APPS goals and address member feedback or concerns, escalating issues to the BOD as necessary.

4. Meetings and Reporting

   Committees should meet regularly, as determined by the Chair and BOD Liaison, to ensure consistent progress. Committees must submit a quarterly report to the BOD summarizing their activities, accomplishments, challenges, and recommendations. Additionally, committees submit a comprehensive year-end report to the BOD at the Annual Meeting, covering goals achieved, areas for improvement, and proposed objectives for the next year.

5. Decision-Making Authority

   Committees have the authority to make minor decisions within their area of focus but must seek BOD approval for significant policy changes, financial decisions, or actions affecting the APPS or its members.

6. Review and Accountability

   The BOD will periodically assess the effectiveness, progress, and alignment of each committee with APPS’s strategic objectives. Committees may be restructured, dissolved, or reassigned tasks based on organizational needs and performance.

ARTICLE IV: MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 4.1 MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATION

Membership classes include:

1. Registered Breeder

   A Registered Breeder within the APPS is a member who owns and breeds Registered APPs. These pigs are in the process of being developed, meaning they are at any stage from the foundation (F) to the 6th generation (F6). Registered Breeders actively contribute to the development of the APP breed, working to meet the APPS Standard of Excellence as their pigs progress through the generations.

2. Certified Breeder:

   A Certified Breeder within the APPS is a member who owns and breeds Registered APPs, with these pigs being fully developed (7th generation or beyond) and meeting the APPS Standard of Excellence. Their APP breeding program must be centered on maintaining the highest standards for Registered APPs, ensuring that all APP stock is of pure APP lineage and in full compliance with the APPS Standard of Excellence requirements.

3. Associate Member

   An Associate Member within the APPS is an individual or entity with an interest in the development and promotion of the APP breed. Associate Members do not own or breed APPs and are not listed in the APPS breeder directory. While they are non-voting members, they can engage with the APPS community, access educational resources, and view the APPS Herdbook. They support the organization’s mission without participating in breeding, registration, exhibition, or certification activities.

SECTION 4.2 DUES

Membership dues are assessed annually and are automatically processed through the APPS website. All dues must be paid in full to maintain active membership status.

SECTION 4.3 TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERSHIP

1. Proper Terminology:

   Members agree to use the terms '"The Practical Pasture Pig™”, “APPS-Registered American Pasture Pigs™”, and “Certified APP Pork™” exclusively for APPS-Registered APPs, and APP pork that meets the APPS certification requirements, and only as assigned by the APPS. This applies to all forms of advertising, including but not limited to, verbal, print, social media, and websites.

2. Identification Requirements:

   Members must implement management practices that ensure accurate identification of every APP on their farms. Identification requirements include submitting photos for registration, collecting DNA samples to verify parentage, and using at least one of the following methods:

   Ear Tag: A farm tag in the left ear and/or a USDA 840 tag in the right ear (must be legible and/or scannable, with the member owning an appropriate scanner). If an ear tag is lost, it must be replaced, and the updated tag information must be recorded with the APPS.

   Ear Notch: Following a recognized pattern.

   Microchip: Properly placed under the skin at the base of the left ear (not in the muscle or cartilage), with the member owning an appropriate reader.

   These practices are essential to maintaining the integrity of the APP breed and ensuring traceability within the APPS registry.

3. Record-Keeping and Submission:

   Members agree to keep accurate breeding records and to provide copies to the APPS upon request. The APPS may deny registration if parentage is uncertain. Members must submit Neogen DNA records and results to the APPS, with all submissions becoming APPS property.

4. Submission Requirements:

   Members submitting data for APPS registrations must provide all requested documentation, which will remain APPS property indefinitely without compensation.

5. Privacy and Data Protection:

   APPS will not share, sell, or distribute members’ contact information outside of the breeder directory on the APPS website, social media member promotions, or for Certified APP Pork™ promotion unless the member grants permission.

6. Eligibility and Rights:

   Membership is open to individuals, farms, nonprofits, for-profits, research facilities, and government entities. Membership is not limited to residents or citizens of the United States. The APPS reserves the right to refuse service to any individual or entity.

7. Prefix and Registered Name/Number Use:

   All members of the APPS must use an APPS-approved prefix as an identifier in APPS-registered names (e.g., “ABC” for ABC Pastures). For generations F-F6, the prefix (if applicable) is followed by “Foundation” and a unique identifying number assigned by the APPS. For generations F7 and beyond, the prefix is followed by a unique name chosen by the breeder or owner. This naming structure is proprietary to the APPS and is protected by intellectual property laws.

8. Member Conduct:

   Membership is a privilege requiring members to act with respect, professionalism, and kindness in all APPS-related communications as well as with fellow members. Concerns should be addressed privately and professionally to foster professionalism and inclusion within the APP community.

9. Acceptance of Terms and Amendments:

   By purchasing membership, members agree to APPS requirements and bylaws, including future amendments. APPS will attempt to notify members of changes; however, members remain accountable regardless of prior notice.

10. Ownership of APPS Materials:

    All materials created by or for the APPS, including but not limited to; website content, Facebook pages/groups, blog posts, articles, social media posts, registration certificates, and documentation, are the exclusive property of the APPS. Unauthorized use of APPS trademarks, copyrights, or content is prohibited.

11. Exclusive Authority for APPs:

    The APPS is the sole authority recognized for developing, registering, awarding, and certifying APPs, APP pork, and APP semen. No other entity, organization, or individual has the right to register, certify, or award APPs in any way. Members agree not to seek or use alternative registration or certification services for APPs, APP pork, or APP semen. The APPS allows dual registration with the Idaho Pasture Pig Registry (IPPR). (Trademark Disclosure: Idaho Pasture Pig® is a registered trademark owned by the Idaho Pasture Pig Registry. The American Pasture Pig Society operates as an independent organization and has no affiliation with or endorsement from the Idaho Pasture Pig Registry. References to Idaho Pasture Pig® on this website are provided solely for informational purposes and do not imply any association, sponsorship, or approval.

SECTION 4.4 ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIP TERMS

1. Members may cancel membership at any time via the APPS website, without a refund.

2. Only members 21 years or older in good standing may serve on the APPS BOD or APPS Committees except for positions that are exclusively for youth members.

3. Voting eligibility is limited to members in good standing, with one vote per farm/prefix.

4. Members must report all eligible litters and provide transfer paperwork when selling or transferring APPs.

5. Members must participate in APPS herd census efforts.

6. Members and APPS will work diligently together to promote, preserve, and document the APP breed accurately and honestly.

7. In the event of a member’s death, heirs may transfer ownership of the member’s APPs.

8. Members must represent the APPS honorably and treat fellow members with respect.

9. Members must accurately record and represent all breedings.

10. Membership does not guarantee access to APPS social media accounts.

11. Members must not engage in any actions, statements, or communications—whether in person, online, or in any public forum—that could cause reputational harm to the APPS, its members, or its representatives. This includes refraining from making disparaging remarks, sharing confidential information, or participating in conduct that could damage the integrity, trust, or public perception of APPS, the APP breed, and its community.

ARTICLE V: GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

SECTION 5.1 VIOLATION

Members who believe another member is violating the APPS bylaws may submit a complaint via email to registrar@american-pasture-pig-society.com. If the BOD chooses to investigate, they may request additional information from the complainant. The complainant must be prepared to provide evidence supporting the alleged violation(s). Complaints deemed frivolous, baseless, vexatious, or malicious are considered serious offenses and will result in disciplinary action under SECTION 5.2-5.5.

SECTION 5.2 DEFENSE

The accused member will receive at least 14 days’ notice to submit their written defense to the APPS by mail and/or email. During this period, they have the right to review all evidence related to the case and present their own evidence via mail or email. If the accused fails to respond by the specified deadline, the BOD may proceed with the decision based on the available information. It is the responsibility of all members to ensure their contact information is current with the APPS.

SECTION 5.3 PENALTY

If found guilty, the BOD may impose penalties, including revoking the member’s rights and privileges, suspending or revoking their prefix, or permanently banning the member from the APPS.

SECTION 5.4 NOTICE OF DECISION

The APPS will notify the accused member of the decision via mail and/or email within 14 days of reaching a conclusion. No public announcement will be made regarding the decision or any disciplinary actions taken.

SECTION 5.5 APPEAL PROCESS

The accused member has the right to submit a formal appeal to the APPS within 14 days of receiving the decision. The BOD will review the appeal and make a final determination, which will be communicated to the member via mail and/or email.

ARTICLE VI: LEGAL

By joining the APPS, all members, including their heirs, executors, administrators, successors, assigns, and other associated representatives, expressly and irrevocably agree to the following terms. This waiver applies to any and all past, present, and future members.

SECTION 6.1 WAIVER OF LIABILITY

Members fully waive and release any claims, demands, debts, expenses, liabilities, causes of action, damages, and losses—whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen—that may arise from any aspect of APPS membership. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Membership status, including acceptance, denial, or revocation.

2. Participation in APPS events, activities, committees, or services.

3. Any interaction with or representation by APPS, including its agents, contractors, volunteers, and any associated representatives.

4. This waiver applies to all claims regardless of the legal theory, including claims based on negligence, errors, omissions, breach of contract, personal injury, property damage, financial loss, reputational damage, or any other harm.

SECTION 6.2 INDEMNIFICATION AND DEFENSE

Members agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the APPS and its representatives, including owners, agents, employees, officers, directors, trustees, affiliates, volunteers, contractors, successors, and assigns, from any and all liabilities, claims, or damages arising from or related to their membership or activities within the APPS. This obligation to indemnify and defend includes covering all related legal fees, court costs, and any expenses incurred in defending against any claim, regardless of the outcome.

SECTION 6.3 LIMITATION OF LEGAL ACTIONS

Members agree that no lawsuit, arbitration, mediation, or other legal or quasi-legal action may be initiated against the APPS, its representatives, affiliates, or any associated persons or organizations in any jurisdiction or venue. Only the courts of the State of Wisconsin shall have jurisdiction over disputes involving the APPS.

SECTION 6.4 PROHIBITION OF DAMAGES AND REMEDIES

Members irrevocably waive any right to seek punitive damages, consequential damages, or injunctive relief against the APPS, its representatives, or affiliates for any alleged actions or omissions. This includes any attempt to disrupt the APPS operations, enforce alternative policies, or seek financial compensation. Members agree that the APPS, its representatives and affiliates are not liable for any perceived or actual damages arising from membership, including, but not limited to, financial losses, property damage, or personal injury.

SECTION 6.5 ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

Members acknowledge that participation in the APPS and its related activities is entirely voluntary. By joining, members assume full responsibility for any risks, known or unknown, associated with membership or APPS activities. Members expressly recognize that the APPS, its representatives, and its affiliates are not responsible for any outcomes, decisions, or potential harm resulting from member activities.

SECTION 6.6 IRREVOCABLE AGREEMENT TO WAIVER

This waiver is irrevocable and binding on members, their heirs, assigns, executors, and any associated representatives or affiliates. Members affirm that they have read, understood, and voluntarily accepted the terms of this waiver in full. Members further acknowledge that this waiver is comprehensive and is intended to cover all potential legal claims that could be raised against APPS or its representatives or affiliates.

SECTION 6.7 BROAD SCOPE AND ENFORCEABILITY

Members acknowledge that this waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as possible under Wisconsin law, and they agree to waive any argument challenging the enforceability of its provisions. If any clause in this waiver is deemed invalid by a court, members agree that the remaining provisions shall remain in effect to the fullest extent possible, and that APPS and its representatives and affiliates retain all protections offered herein.

SECTION 6.8 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF NO OTHER REPRESENTATION

Members confirm that no representations, promises, or inducements not expressly included in this agreement have been made by APPS, its representatives, or anyone else affiliated with APPS. This waiver supersedes any prior agreements or statements regarding APPS membership and applies to all claims, both current and future.

SECTION 6.9 ACCEPTANCE AND RELEASE

By joining or renewing membership in the APPS, members confirm their full understanding of this comprehensive waiver and agree to:

1. Voluntarily and irrevocably release the APPS, its representatives and affiliates from all liability, claims, and actions.

2. Accept all risks associated with membership.

3. Uphold the APPS’s right to maintain its operations and decision-making free from external influence, interference, or liability.

This waiver ensures that the APPS and all associated individuals, including owners, directors, employees, volunteers, contractors, affiliates, and successors, are fully shielded from legal actions, financial claims, and any form of legal harm. Members acknowledge that they are waiving their rights to any future legal recourse against the APPS or any of its representatives and affiliates.