Grand North Bison
Grand North Bison, a family farm nestled in the heart of Ontario, carries a rich heritage dating back to the 1940s. As a third-generation farm, it has evolved from a dairy operation into one of the largest bison farms in Eastern Canada. Under the leadership of John Karhi and his wife Amy, the farm exemplifies the fusion of passion and quality, bringing the finest bison products to their customers.
Grand North Bison is a family owned bison farm located just west of Desbarats.
John and Amy made the pivotal decision to transition from dairy farming to raising bison full-time in 2001. This shift marked the beginning of an era defined by dedication to quality and sustainable practices. By 2013, the bison herd had grown to 400, and by 2020, it had doubled to roughly 800 bison. Recognizing the need to ensure the highest standards of meat quality from pasture to plate, the Karhi family took a significant step by purchasing an abattoir. This strategic move allowed them to maintain control over the entire process, guaranteeing exceptional quality in every product they offer.
Operating a business and managing a farm is undoubtedly challenging, but it is also immensely rewarding. The Karhi family is committed to providing a quality product to consumers and looks forward to the coming years as they continue to grow and meet the increasing demand for high-quality bison meat. Their dedication to ethical and sustainable practices is evident in every aspect of their operation.
At Grand North Bison, the journey of bison meat from farm to table is a testament to their commitment to ethical farming. The bison are raised in open pastures at Northorizon Farms, a vast, free-range haven where they thrive in health and vitality. The farm employs rotational grazing methods, allowing the land to rejuvenate while providing ample, nutritious forage for the bison. This nurturing environment enables the bison to exhibit their natural behaviors and form tight-knit social bonds, fostering both their health and the rich biodiversity of the land.
Ethical farming practices are central to Grand North Bison's philosophy. The bison are raised without hormones or antibiotics, ensuring they grow naturally at their own pace. Every effort is made to minimize stress during handling and transport, respecting the bison's natural instincts and contributing to the high quality and taste of the meat. This commitment to transparency and humane treatment extends beyond the farm to every stage of the bison's life.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Grand North Bison's practices. Rotational grazing promotes the health of the herds and nurtures the land they graze upon. This system allows for sections of pasture to rest and regenerate, ensuring a continuous cycle of lush, nutrient-rich forage. The symbiotic relationship between bison and their environment enhances the overall health of the ecosystem and contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through carbon sequestration and improved soil health.
The acquisition of an abattoir has enabled Grand North Bison to oversee every facet of the journey from ranch to processor. This vertical integration ensures the highest standards of quality and safety at every crucial stage. The seasoned ranchers and skilled butchers work in seamless collaboration to maintain the integrity of the process, resulting in meat of exceptional quality. The bison are transported just 10 minutes from the farm to the processing facility, where ethical and humane methods are employed, ensuring a stress-free and dignified transition.
The Fair Finance Fund loan has been instrumental in helping Grand North Bison acquire the abattoir facility, securing a permanent location and enhancing operational efficiency. This strategic investment not only ensures the availability of essential services but also creates jobs and strengthens the commitment to local agriculture. The expansion of Northorizon Abattoir's operations will trigger a chain reaction of employment growth, benefiting skilled workers, suppliers, vendors, and associated services. This contributes to the economic resilience of the local agricultural landscape, fostering agricultural sustainability and community prosperity.
Grand North Bison's dedication to transparency, ethical farming, and sustainable practices empowers consumers to make informed decisions that align with their values. Their commitment to providing high-quality bison meat reflects a deep respect for the animals, the land, and the community. As the farm continues to grow, it forges a path towards a more conscious and nourishing future, supporting an industry that values the health and well-being of both animals and the environment.