Stop. Don't Sign That Contract Yet
Get the honest facts about debt, low control, and income instability before you commit your farm's future.Get the Help You Need
Know the Risks
Small farmers are being exploited every day at the hands of the corporate giants who control today’s industry. From unfair contracts, inconsistent income, and challenging demands on growers, the system is designed to limit your power.
Explore Better Farming Solutions
There are many ways to farm without signing an unfair contract with a giant meat corporation.
The Reality of Contract Growing
Many companies paint a pretty picture of the contract growing system, promising independence, flexibility, and rewarding growth opportunities. But the reality is much grimmer.High Debt
You'll finance the barn. The company controls the birds.Unstable Income
Your pay relies on a 'tournament' system, not a guaranteed rate.Zero Autonomy
Once you’re in a contract, the company controls production at every stage.Hear from Farmers Who Lived It
Craig Watts former contract grower and industry whistleblowerThere were red flags from the start. But my desire to get back to the farm quashed any concerns I had about signing a contract with the poultry industry. Looking back, I now realize it was a momentary lapse of reason that would haunt me for the next two decades.
Susie Crutchfieldformer Tyson contract growerWe received a letter from Tyson that said we either had to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars more into the farm for updates, or be shut down. We knew that if we didn’t make the upgrades, we could be paid even less per pound in the tournament system than those with newer chicken houses. It was devastating news.
Michael Diaz former Pilgrim’s Pride contract growerAlthough we knew little about chicken farming, we felt confident we were investing in a business that would build generational wealth for our family. But less than 90 days into our contract with the poultry industry, we realized we had been lied to.
It wasn’t so much what they did tell us, but all of the things they didn’t tell us, that pushed us down a path which nearly bankrupted us.Paula Boles former contract grower
