Update on Grassway Organics, the Wisconsin dairy farm and FTCLDF member seeking an injunction against the Wisconsin Department of Trade and Consumer Protection:
On September 29, 2026, FTCLDF shared its press release about actions taken against FTCLDF member Grassway Organics and its lawsuit against the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
DATCP has allowed Grassway Organics to operate under its model that distributes raw milk to bona fide owners of the raw dairy cooperative. Then it issued orders against Grassway Organics, first demanding changes to its business practices and then suspending the farm’s milk license. Grassway Organics requested a hearing, yet DATCP continues enforcement actions. To read the press release, visit: https://www.farmtoconsumer.org/blog/2026/09/29/ftcldf-member-files-for-a-temporary-restraining-order-against-the-wisconsin-department-of-agriculture-trade-and-consumer-protection/
On October 7, 2026, the court declined to issue a Temporary Restraining Order, apparently because it felt the DATCP orders against Grassway Organics had been pending for some time and were therefore not an “emergency.” Grassway Organics filed the Motion for a TRO after DATCP confirmed that it would continue enforcement actions.
The court has asked for briefs on whether an injunction is needed to stop DATCP from acting prior to the hearing on the merits of DATCP’s allegations against Grassway Organics. It has stated that it will rule on this matter on November 30, 2026. FTCLDF and Grassway Organics take the position that for the farm to receive due process, DATCP should hold off on enforcement actions until an Administrative Law Judge hears the case concerning allegations against the farm.
FTCLDF will keep folks updated on any developments. In the meantime, Grassway Organics continues to seek funding for its legal expenses. As stated in the FTCLDF press release, readers can donate at https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/6syflsan2usb or if a tax deduction is necessary, at Food of Choice.
