Ferguson Farm Transition
Environmental Impact
The transition at Ferguson Farm represents a powerful case study in sustainable agriculture transformation. From raising 400,000 broiler chickens annually to harvesting 40,000 heads of lettuce weekly in a hydroponic system, Ferguson Farm has not only increased profitability but also dramatically reduced its environmental footprint. Below, you'll find the positive environmental impact of converting one farm of this size:

207 million gallons

Water savings from feed production, drinking water, and processing. Hydroponic systems demonstrate remarkable efficiency compared to water-intensive animal agriculture.

Image on left: Chicken shed at Ferguson Farm prior to the transition to lettuce farming.

1,997 Metric Tons

Reduction in carbon emissions from feed production, manure management, and processing. This significant decrease illustrates how hydroponic systems are far less carbon-intensive than animal agriculture.

Image on right: Aerial view of the sheds that formerly housed chickens at Ferguson Farm (credit: Mark L. Middleton).

113.5 acres

Previous chicken operation required extensive land for barns, feed crops (corn and soy), and manure management. Hydroponic systems' space efficiency helps preserve natural ecosystems and protect biodiversity.

8.92 Metric Tons

Transitions eliminate nitrogen from broiler manure that would otherwise contaminate waterways, cause algal blooms, and create dead zones. Hydroponic systems recycle water and nutrients, minimizing runoff and pollution.

985,290 KWH

Energy savings from heating, ventilation, lighting, feed production, transportation, and processing. While hydroponics require energy for pumps, lighting, and climate control, overall consumption is lower than animal agriculture. Existing chicken sheds offer opportunities for solar panel installation.

Image on left: A chicken transport truck captured during Animal Outlook's 2018 undercover investigation of Amick Farms.