One of Ontario’s most recognized names in livestock sales is stepping away after six decades.
David Carson, founder of Carson Farms and Auction Services, has sold the longtime family-run operation just outside Listowel. The new owner does not plan to continue with the auction service, marking the end of a major chapter in Ontario’s agriculture and livestock industry.
The 143-acre farm has been purchased by Robert Van Nes of Evergreen Holsteins. The property includes 129 tiled and workable acres, extensive infrastructure such as a 130-stall dairy barn, feed and calf facilities, a 20,000-square-foot auction barn, an egg grading station, and a solar lease, all built up since Carson bought the land in 1965 for $25,000 at the age of 19.
Carson will sell his remaining cattle in two major sales this month: 125 Holstein milk cows on May 14 and 220 bred and open heifers on May 21. The business officially changes hands on May 29.
"It’s just time," Carson told CKNXNewsToday.ca. "I’m nearly 79 and I want to slow down, do a bit of traveling, and enjoy life."
Carson’s career saw the rise of one of the country’s most respected livestock auction facilities. The business became known for its integrity, consistent turnout, and loyal clientele, something Carson credits largely to his staff, some of whom have worked with him for over 40 years.
"I had terrific staff. That’s why this place was successful," he said. "They’ve been with me through everything."
Among his proudest memories is hosting the International Plowing Match in 2005 and managing massive custom heifer feeding programs before the 2003 BSE crisis devastated cattle markets across Canada. "The day before BSE hit, those heifers were worth $2,250 each. The day after, they were worth $200," he recalled.
Carson noted that the livestock sales industry has shifted in recent years. Advancements in animal genetics, sexed semen, and robotic milking systems have reduced demand for young stock, while market consolidation and rising operational costs have made auctions harder to run profitably.
"It takes a lot of organization and effort to keep an auction business going," he said. "But the market is smaller now, and there's not as many Holstein heifers being sold."
Still, Carson remains optimistic. He believes Ontario’s remaining auction services can handle the transition, and his network of 37,000 online bidders will continue doing business elsewhere.
While the auction barn will no longer operate under the new owner, Carson isn’t stepping away from agriculture entirely. He plans to continue managing 350 acres and keep working with his horses.
Before fully retiring, the Carsons are inviting customers and community members to an open house on June 13, 2025 from 1 to 5 p.m. to thank them for their support over the years.
"There have been a lot of people coming up saying they don’t know where they’ll go for cattle now," Carson said. "I hate to see it end too, but we’ve had a good run, and I’m grateful for all of it."