Share via

Ferguson Farm Transition: From Chicken Farming to Sustainable Produce

A Story of Agricultural Transformation

In Southeast Alabama, a remarkable agricultural transformation is underway. Veteran poultry farmer Bill Ferguson, with support from Animal Outlook's Farm Transitions program, is converting his chicken sheds to grow lettuce for local schools and grocery stores. This shift from industrial animal agriculture to sustainable plant farming creates a replicable model that benefits farmers, communities, and the environment while reducing animal suffering.

Mr. Ferguson, a former chicken farmer from Southeast Alabama, worked for two decades with Keystone, raising approximately 400,000 chickens annually with a 95% survival rate. His operation grossed about $200,000 per year before expenses.

When his contract wasn't renewed, Mr. Ferguson signed with Tyson—the only major poultry company recruiting in his area. Under Tyson, he raised 500,000 birds yearly, but these smaller birds (4.5 lbs versus 9 lbs) had only an 80% survival rate. His income dropped to $96,000 annually while expenses increased due to Tyson's demands.

Finding a New Path Forward

Seeking change, Mr. Ferguson connected with Animal Outlook's Farm Transitions program. Our Farm Transitions team assisted Mr. Ferguson with:

  • Comprehensive financial analysis
  • Technical research for crop production
  • Market research for production system and crop selection
  • Detailed architectural renderings for retrofitting the poultry houses provided by Envelope A+D
  • Securing a low-interest loan for transition renovations
  • Developing a sustainable business model

Converting Chicken Sheds to Crop Production

After consulting with agricultural experts, we determined Mr. Ferguson's four chicken sheds were ideal for conversion to facilities for growing crops. He chose to focus on lettuce production—a strategic decision based on:

  • The crop's suitability for indoor growing conditions
  • High market value in Alabama, where most lettuce is imported from distant states like California
  • Market demand through the state Farm to School program

Pilot Project Implementation

In spring 2024, we launched a pilot project converting one chicken shed into a lettuce growing facility. The methodical transition included:

  • Complete cleaning of the facility and excavation of ammonia-soaked soil
  • Installation of drainage and concrete flooring
  • Construction of specialized grow boxes
  • Construction of a headhouse to include the nursery, prep area, packaging area, and worker breakroom 
  • Installation of LED grow lights
Despite supply chain challenges, including a Canadian trucking strike that delayed the delivery of lighting equipment and record-breaking snowfall that delayed its installation, the facility was completed by spring 2025.

Looking to the Future

The first lettuce crop was harvested in May 2025. This produce will supply markets across southeastern Alabama, providing consumers, including a local school district and the Piggly Wiggly grocery chain, with locally-grown alternatives to trucked-in produce.

According to Mr. Ferguson  "The profit from half a house of lettuce can match or even surpass the earnings from four poultry houses!"

This transformation represents not just one farmer's journey, but a model for agricultural transition that benefits farmers, communities, and the environment.
“Working with Animal Outlook has been a great experience. Each person I’ve worked with has been extremely helpful in finding ways to take a bad situation and turn it into something positive. I’m so thankful I’ve had the chance to be involved with this wonderful organization.” – Bill Ferguson, Ferguson Farm

Key supporters:

Stray Dog Institute    David Reuben      Dr. Bronner’s