Our Rich Heritage
Circle W Bison stands as a testament to over 120 years of agricultural dedication. Rooted in Alberta’s fertile lands, our farm has thrived through five generations, each committed to preserving the legacy of quality and sustainability. Since the 1920s, we’ve mastered the art of grain-finishing bison, ensuring that every cut reflects our family’s passion and expertise. Our commitment to sustainable practices and our own homegrown feed sets us apart, making us a trusted name in premium bison production.
Circle W Bison is more than just a farm; it’s a legacy. For over a century, our family has cultivated the land with care, passing down time-honored techniques and a deep respect for nature. Our journey began in the 1920s, and today, we continue to uphold the values of quality and sustainability that have defined us. By growing our own grain and finishing our bison on-site, we ensure the highest standards of taste and nutrition, delivering a product that is both exceptional and environmentally responsible.
Our Journey Through Time
Quality meat begins with the experience and generational knowledge of those who raise it. The Watsons have been a part of Alberta’s heritage since its inception. Circle W Farms is a Canadian business that has been a part of the Alberta farming industry since the early days of the province. Take a look at the storied Watson history and find out why they were, and still are, at the forefront of raising Canadian meat.
1903
Founder of the Farm - John Watson
John Watson, the patriarch of the Watson Family was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1887. John and his father decided to make the journey to Canada to start a farm. In 1918 John moved the farm from near Viking to Evarts, and registered the Circle W Brand. He was employing the practice of grain finishing about thirty years before it became a standard method in Canada.
1943
2nd Generation - Kay Watson
John and Mima had one son, George Kay Watson. Kay, as he was called, knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life. Kay graduated from Olds School of Agriculture in 1943, married Nellie Jarvis a few years after, and formed a powerful union. Kay dedicated his whole life to continuing the legacy of the farm from the days of horse drawn times to the start of the modern day internet.
1975
3rd Generation - Ross Watson
From 1975, Circle W Farms kept on raising quality beef, but the status quo was not enough for Ross Watson (Kay and Nellie’s second of three sons). He decided it was time to try something different and was one of the first silage farms in Central Alberta. Also, long before it became a modern trend, Ross recognized that the future of premium red meat was not in beef, but in bison. Ross continues to work side by side with his son Garrett to lead the farm into its next generations.
2000
4th Generation - Garrett Watson
The eldest of Ross and Sharon’s four children, Garrett now works along side of Ross to continue their steeped family tradition in farming. Instead of just exporting to the highest U.S. bidder, they believe it’s more important to create a new channel for fellow Canadians to directly access their high-quality meats. Garrett and Theresa have a 10 year old son who is now in training to be the 5th generation Watson of the future.