2012 Issue / Volume 20 International Agriculture

The official publication of the International Agriculture committee Showcasing the Agricultural Industry to the world

The Livestock Genetics Industry in Alberta Celebrating our Centennial Locally Produced Food Inspires Both Southern Albertans and Global Visitors Message from Canada’s Message from Minister of Minister of Agriculture and Alberta Agriculture and Agri-Food and minister for Rural Development the canadian wheat board

Gerry Ritz Evan Berger Minister of Agriculture Minister of Alberta and Agri-Food Agriculture and Rural Development

On behalf of the Government of Canada, a warm welcome to Canadian and I am truly honoured to serve Albertans as Minister of Agriculture and Rural international visitors to the 2012 Calgary Stampede, as we celebrate 100 years Development and it is my pleasure to congratulate the Calgary Stampede on of “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”. their centennial year! While many things have changed over the past century, the Stampede remains Agriculture is the second-largest industry in Alberta and is a valued and a world-class gathering place that showcases the finest agriculture products essential part of our economy. Rural roots run deep in Alberta and our and practices that Canada has to offer. Since 1912, the Stampede has been province got its start from a foundation based on a rural way of life in a connecting producers to international markets and reminds all of us where place of great opportunity. As both a farmer and rancher, I am proud of my the delicious food on our dinner plate comes from. connection to Alberta’s pioneer roots. During your visit to the Stampede this year, you’ll discover world-class For 100 years, the Calgary Stampede has evolved and today is the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” by combining the past and the present seamlessly quality, innovation, safety and diversity of our livestock and all the other great in the heart of Alberta’s largest city. As one of the finest agricultural events products that have put Canada among the world’s leading agriculture and in the world, the Stampede has something for everybody and highlights how food producers. agriculture impacts our daily lives. I encourage you to take the reins and I’m pleased the Government of Canada is supporting the International Room experience and celebrate this memorable event this summer. to help international visitors tap into our Canadian agriculture and food The International Room, located in the Agriculture Building, showcases excellence. I promise you – once you get a taste of Canada’s safe, high-quality Alberta’s diverse agriculture industry, allowing our visitors from around food, you’ll have to come back for more! the world to talk with and ask questions of Alberta’s producers, breeders All the best for an enjoyable and productive visit. Here’s wishing the Calgary and top Canadian cattlemen and women. Stampede another century of success! While enjoying the Stampede, I encourage everyone to visit the many sights of our great province. From our rolling prairies to our snow- capped mountains and our prehistoric hoodoos, Alberta’s famous western hospitality and breathtaking natural scenery will make you glad you took an Alberta break.

Mike Casey, President and Chairman of the Board, Calgary Stampede Welcome to the Centennial issue of International Agriculture Profile. As we reflect on the last 100 years of the Stampede, it is clear that the themes that united us as a community in 1912 continue to unite us today. The very first Calgary Exhibition was created to bring Albertans together to celebrate our agricultural roots. For more than 100 years we have had a proud tradition of showcasing the best of this industry. We are extremely excited that 2012 will mark the year that we begin construction of the Agrium Western Event Centre. Thanks to funding from Agrium and the federal and provincial governments, the new facility will be a state-of-the-art, world-class gathering place. We can now continue our tradition of showcasing the best in agricultural innovation, internationally renowned events and urban and rural education programs in this brand-new facility. Please accept my personal invitation to join us this year at the 2012 Centennial Stampede, from July 6 to 15, where we will continue to unite urban and rural Calgarians while we showcase the best of agriculture in our province. I look forward to seeing you at the 2012 Stampede this July!

And we thank Calgary The Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee extends heartfelt thanks to the talented volunteer writers who enthusiastically captured the stories shared here. They took time from their work to demonstrate their curiosity, keen interviewing skills and strong writing abilities. Our writers include members of the International Agriculture committee, other Calgary Stampede volunteers and industry colleagues. Greetings from the Message from the chair Agricultural Managers Calgary Stampede of the Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee

Max Fritz Ted Haney Senior Manager Agriculture, Chair, International Calgary Stampede Agriculture committee

Welcome to the 2012 issue of International Agriculture Profile, the official publication of the Calgary Stampede’s International Agriculture committee. This is a special year, as we celebrate 100 years of the Calgary Stampede. This is a time to reflect upon the gifts of nature, the innovations, and the leadership that have carried us across a successful century of human endeavour. In these pages, you will trace our history through the stories of leadership and commitment that continue to shape our industry today. The common thread is a fundamental dedication Robert Wise to shaping a progressive society that is both caring and successful. Our future will build Agriculture Manager, upon these same cornerstones of integrity, pride, hospitality and community service. This Calgary Stampede is the legacy and reality of our western heritage and values. A century ago, a small community decided to expand its annual agriculture exhibition to create a truly amazing show — the Calgary Stampede. The new approach maintained As the Calgary Stampede builds momentum to celebrate its the strong connections to Canada’s First Nations and to agriculture and added a new Centennial, July 6 – 15, 2012, the Agriculture Department entertainment value featuring world-class rodeo. The past century has seen the Calgary welcomes all visitors involved in the agriculture industry Stampede flourish and develop along with Calgary, Alberta and Canada. from around the globe and here at home, to join in this great Today, Alberta’s agriculture and agri-food interests span the world — and continue to commemoration with us. This year’s Stampede is going to be a truly grow our legacy of rural culture. Our livestock, grains, oilseeds, pulses, forages, processed global and memorable experience! foods, genetics and advanced technologies are exported to all regions of the world. With While Centennial celebrations are being held throughout 2012, the global human population expected to grow from 7 billion to 9 billion by 2050, much this year’s 10-day Stampede is guaranteed to be an experience of will be expected from our highly efficientfood-producing industry over the next 40 years. a lifetime, as we reflect on the past 100 years of western heritage, The Western warmth and hospitality of the Calgary Stampede present a tremendous culture and values. As we commemorate and honour a century of opportunity to promote Canadian agriculture and agri-businesses on the world stage. showcasing Stampede’s agriculture, we will also offer a peek into Each year as our city dons its official “white hat” and invites the world to come celebrate, future exciting new developments on the horizon for agriculture the International Agriculture committee welcomes thousands of agriculture visitors from on Stampede Park. across Canada and around the world to the Stampede. The Calgary Stampede agriculture events can trace their history back Last year, we hosted over 1,850 agriculture visitors representing all sectors of the industry from 42 countries — providing the services, settings, programs and events to facilitate the to the Calgary Agricultural Exhibition in 1886. As is still the case meeting of business interests and fostering of business opportunities. The International today, agriculture was an integral part of Alberta’s economy and the Agriculture committee has worked hard in the past year to refine our program and the original Exhibition was a way to show off the region’s farming and resources that it brings to agriculture and agri-food stakeholders. ranching success. It wasn’t until 1912 that the rodeo was added to create the event we know today as the Calgary Stampede. Since then, I would like to thank Cam Clark as our Director Liaison. We have come to appreciate Cam’s quiet and steadfast support for our committee’s programs, services and objectives. agricultural events and showcases have continued to grow locally and I also thank Vice-Chairs Keith Jones and John Lee, Working Group Leads Aaron Grant expand globally, to make the Calgary Stampede an international (Sponsorship), David Collins (Strategic Planning), Candace Lyle (Events) and Jenn meeting place to observe the tremendous impact of Alberta’s rural Norrie (Communications) — and all our volunteers, who bring the spirit of Western community. In reaching this significant milestone, we are excited hospitality to each visitor they greet and each warm welcome they extend. this year to historically highlight each program with special displays And special thanks to the International Agriculture Profile team. These volunteers have in the Agricultural Pavilion, as we showcase the diverse and integral brought Alberta’s agriculture achievements to life in these pages, shining the spotlight on parts of Alberta agriculture. the dedicated men and women of our industry. My thanks to Tina Zakowsky (Editor), Doug Blair, Tanya Currie, Tyler Difley, Norma Dunn, Lotte Elsgaard, Robin Galey, Shannon Haney, Kerrie Harvie, Janet Kanters, Todd Kimberley, Jennifer Norrie, Megan Oleksyn, Annemarie Pederson, Jan Warren, Jay Whetter and Perry Wilkes for their contributions. This year’s Centennial celebrations of the Calgary Stampede promise to be spectacular. We invite you to come join in the celebration. When you’re here, please come by the International Room (second floor Agriculture Building) or our booth in the Cattle Trail (in the barn) and say hello! We look forward to linking you to our industry and community.

THE PROFILE 2012 1 CONTENTS 8 The Livestock Genetics Industry in Alberta The

file 17 Celebrating our Centennial

o 35 Locally Produced Food Inspires r Both Southern Albertans and International Global Visitors P INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE e Cam Clark Promoting Alberta (Director Liaison) nal Room o Ted Haney Keith Jones John Lee

ti (Chair) (Vice-Chair Strategic (Vice-Chair Planning & Sponsorship) Communications & Canadian Agriculture

cultur & Events) na i r John Arnold Kerrie Harvie Jenn Norrie

gr Welcome to all Agriculture Exhibitors and (Communications Lead) Barry Bennett Janet Kanters A Inte Dave Phillips Doug Blair Bill Klasky Doug Sauter Allan Browarny Kate Kolstad International Visitors. Christie Simpson Cherie Copithorne- Larry Konschuk Barnes Rick Smith Larry Koper David Collins Julie Stitt (Strategic Planning & David Lantz Deb Verbonac The International Room on Stampede Park presents agricultural product and Innovation Lead) Myra Lever Jan Warren Brent Difley Syd Loeppky service exhibits, shares information on industry sectors and invites visitors Doug Wilson Norma Dunn Candace Lyle to socialize with producers, industry specialists, exporters and government Ramon Fosado (Events Lead) Tina Zakowsky representatives. Aaron Grant Kim McConnell Special thanks to: (Sponsorship Lead) Harvey McKernon Members of all Stampede committees, representing Canada’s diverse agricultural Shannon Haney Tracey Foster (Agriculture Programming sectors — are encouraged to bring their international guests and visitors too. Coordinator Calgary Stampede) Located on the second floor fo the Agriculture Building on Stampede Park, the THE PROFILE TEAM International Room is open each day of Stampede from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Publisher: (1100 to 1900). Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee Editor: Our International Agriculture committee members are on hand to welcome Tina Zakowsky you, provide information and help ensure you have a memorable Stampede Doug Blair Jenn Norrie experience. If you represent an agricultural group planning to visit this year’s Norma Dunn Jan Warren Stampede, contact us now and we’ll pre-register your group members for their Shannon Haney visit to the International Room; we’ll have your nametags ready. Follow the Kerrie Harvie Janet Kanters Agriculture links on calgarystampede.com to the International Agriculture/ International Room page. The Profile is the official publication of the Calgary The Calgary Stampede July 6 – 15, 2012 Stampede International Agriculture committee. Published yearly, the Profile celebrates and July 5 – 14, 2013 showcases Alberta and Canadian agriculture to the July 4 – 13, 2014 world. This is the 20th edition of the Profile. calgarystampede.com The Profile is distributed throughout Alberta and across Canada to agricultural producers, breed associations and industry representatives. The Profile is shared with worldwide friends of the Calgary Stampede and distributed at major American and International stock shows, through international agricultural associations, and through selected embassies and consulates. To be added to the Profile distribution list, email the International Agriculture committee at: [email protected] Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content within the Profile. Opinions expressed by individuals profiled within articles are their own. We apologize for any inaccuracies and accept no liability.

Graphic Design: Eldon B. Rice Design Printer: Apache Superior Printing Ltd.

PHOTO: SHOWCHAMPIONS INC / BROWARNY

2 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE In Profile: Larry Koper International Agriculture committee member and Calgary Rotary Club volunteer

shows no sign of slowing down. By Tyler Difley

During his time with the committee, Larry has made a very strong impression on those who visit the International Room. “I really do believe in the approach that the Stampede is taking in making our visitors feel really welcome and also giving them an opportunity to do business in Alberta. I’ve had people come back on a number of occasions after visiting the Stampede, making sure they look us up,” he says. There have been many good business transactions made. Larry first became involved with the International Agriculture committee as an extension of his work with the Alberta Canada All Breeds Association, which existed in Alberta to promote Alberta livestock genetics. “We thought we would just get involved with the International Room to make sure that we could extend the business of promoting Alberta livestock,” he says. Larry wasn’t always involved with agriculture. In fact, he grew up in Kimberley, British Columbia, a mining town at the time. Although A RNY

W Larry did not grow up on a farm, his grandfather and uncles farmed O R near Leduc, Alberta. “I used to visit the farm every summer,” he NC / B

S I says. “I was interested in the outdoors. Very often I’d go to the hills,

I ON hiking all around.” Originally, Larry was a teacher and a principal, but partway through W CH A M P

SHO his career he made the switch to a rural lifestyle. “I had a family and

O :

T I didn’t feel like bringing them up in the concrete jungle, so I went HO P and bought some horses and cows and then from there I bought a place, about 300 acres, and started there,” he says. “I was very, very interested in horses.” Larry Koper has been a member of the Calgary Stampede Larry became particularly interested in the Peruvian Paso horse International Agriculture committee for more than 25 breed. He first came across the breed during a trip to a stock show years, and he says that he still loves every minute of the in Houston, Texas. “I drove out and thought I would find out a little work he does at the Calgary Stampede. His influence is bit about Texas. I came across a Paso horse show and I couldn’t figure felt far beyond the confines of the Stampede grounds, out what the hell a Paso was,” he says. “I stopped, went into the show, and the meaningful connections that he made during his looked at them and started to giggle because of their gait. I’d never travels and through his work in the International Room seen anything like it.” After having an opportunity to ride one of the remain strong. horses, Larry was hooked. “To ride a Paso, is to buy a Paso. They’re “Stampede is a big part of my life. Every Stampede I go to so smooth that it’s just unbelievable,” he says. “So I had to buy one.” the International Room for a number of days and then When he returned from the trip, Larry got himself into the business I’m a Rotarian for the rest of the time,” he says. “I really of importing and breeding Peruvian Pasos. He formed a business PHOTO: SHOWCHAMPIONS INC / BROWARNY do believe in the function of the International Room.”

THE PROFILE 2012 3 ARNY W O R NC / B S I ION WCHAMP SHO

O: T HO P

partnership with two fellow Paso enthusiasts, Leslie Jalkotzy breed to the people visiting the Room. “We used to get the and Rick Cones, and the three imported horses from South names of all the people that would come into the room and American countries like Peru and Guatemala and from the we would send their names and addresses out to the different United States. “We really had some of the top stallions in North breed associations,” he says. “We were really promoting Alberta America up here in Canada”, he says. “When we started, there genetics.” were only about a hundred or so Peruvians in Canada, and now Larry shows no signs of slowing down. He still owns around there are many more, well over 1,000.” The partnership sold 300 acres of farmland northeast of Cochrane, Alberta. “I’m top quality animals across all of Canada and many back into still playing cowboy,” he says. Retirement is not something the United Sates. Larry feels great as, “I put the first eruvianP that he thinks about often. “Generally speaking, we retire stallion into New Zealand.” He is not presently involved in when we start getting old, but I’m in the very fortunate breeding horses anymore though; he says it is too much like position where, instead of getting old, I’m going into my work for him. He hasn’t completely cut ties with his Peruvians second childhood,” he says. though, “I’ve still got six, and they’re just beautiful,” he says. As for plans for when he does eventually retire, Larry says Through the people he met in his work with the International he would like to see, and play a part in securing, a new Room, Larry was able to extend his business. “The International Stampede Agriculture facility and a new facility for the Room has been an excellent place where you can make International Room. For now, he wants to continue his work contacts,” he says. “It has been a really good association with the with the committee and the Stampede. “I very much like the people that I’ve met in the International Room.” association I have with the people at the Stampede,” he says. As a breeder of Blonde d’Aquitaine cattle he has sold semen, “As long as I can do it, I’ll do it. As soon as I feel I’m getting embryos and animals into New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, the in the way, I’ll move.” United States and Mexico. He was very actively involved with Tyler Difley is a freelance journalist and Journalism student at the Alberta Blonde d’Aquitaine Association as a member, Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. During the summer, as treasurer and as president. Through his work in the he calls Calgary, Alberta, his home. He can be reached at International Room, Larry promoted Blonde d’Aquitaine [email protected] cattle for the association. He sent information about the

4 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE In Profile:

Bill Klasky Long-time promoter of the Calgary Stampede hangs up his cowboy hat: 32-year Calgary Stampede volunteer Bill Klasky will retire after the centennial Stampede celebration.

By Jenn Norrie

In 1979, Calgary businessman Bill Klasky joined the his five years with them, Bill’s organizational skills were put to volunteer ranks of the Calgary Stampede on the Promotions use as he resumed lead of scheduling events on park. committee. Bill’s strong organizational skills made him an While Bill was spending his time with the Promotions and integral part of the Promotions committee as he took the role the Park Parade committees, the International Agriculture of organizing all of the outside bookings for the committee, committee (IAC) was building their program and looking for from breakfasts to parades. He was also a fundamental the right man to bring in to grow the sponsorship area of the component to the start of the greeting program at the Calgary program. At that time, IAC member Bev Issacs, who Bill had International Airport. volunteered on the Promotions committee with, recommended The Promotions committee took Bill beyond Calgary and the Bill as a new committee member to IAC chairman Jim McBride 10-day festival in July. He and fellow committee members in 1990. Glenn Street (currently a director with the Calgary Stampede) Unlike other International Agriculture committee members, and Gordie West travelled in Great Britain to promote the Bill did not have any connections to or experience in the Stampede at other fairs, expos and festivals. He spent seven agriculture industry, but this was the start of bringing a balance years on the Promotions committee before moving to the of agriculture, business and community to the IAC. Bill brought Park Parade committee in the mid-1980s. The Park Parade a fresh perspective to the IAC program as an active member of committee program has since been discontinued, but during the Calgary community and successful businessman and allowed

THE PROFILE 2012 5 the committee to explore new avenues and connections to As Bill hangs up his cowboy hat as a volunteer after the 2012 create awareness of the IAC program throughout the Calgary Centennial celebration, he’s pleased to see so many young Stampede organization and also in the Calgary business people becoming involved in volunteer programs with the community. Calgary Stampede. Bill firmly believes that volunteer work Bill has enjoyed his 20-plus years with the International should be fun and he’s been having fun for over 30 years with Agriculture committee, meeting and greeting international the Calgary Stampede. guests with a story and a joke. Bill is a true ambassador of the We bid a final “Yahoo!” to Bill as we are grateful for dedicated Calgary Stampede and is a strong supporter of their volunteer volunteers like Bill Klasky. Happy Trails! system. The Calgary Stampede is strongly supported by their Jenn Norrie is an agriculture enthusiast and loves to travel, volunteers and Bill has been a proud contributor for the past whether it is around Alberta or around the world. She can be 32 years. reached at [email protected]

About the Artist painting something that has emotional and personal significance to me and my clients. These subjects can range from delicate crystal and lace settings to musical instruments, garden scenes and landscapes. Watercolor came easier to me as it was my preferred medium in graphic art design and commercial illustration. I love the control of flowing and soft blends that watercolor allows. I go a step further by detailing my subjects as some acrylic and oil painters do. This style often baffles people who are used to a certain looser style normally associated with watercolors.” John has started a series of landscapes in oil using a looser more impressionistic style. “An artist sometimes has to step outside the box in order to evolve and grow.” He plans to continue his highly realistic watercolors as well as working on his impressionistic oil technique. John has enjoyed sold-out shows and has been awarded ‘Collectors Choice’ and ‘Best of Show’ at major shows in Calgary, Alberta. His John Zacharias A Graduate of the Alberta College of Art, works have been collected by major corporations and Calgary, John began his fine art career after 20 years in graphic art private collectors throughout the world. In 2011 John and advertising management. Born and raised on the prairies and was inducted into “West Guild” as a “Master Artist” and a life-long resident of Alberta, his love for nostalgic treasures form founding member at a ceremony held at the prestigious the basis of his still-life works. “I derive great satisfaction from Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Calgary, Alberta.

6 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE 2011 Calgary Stampede Set the Stage for the International Meat Secretariat Economic Workshop

The workshop — the third of its kind and the first to be held in North America — was planned to coincide with the Calgary Stampede, allowing delegates to experience the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. By Lotte Elsgaard

When the world’s top meat economists gathered in Calgary former Canada Beef Export Federation and Chair of the July 12 to 14, 2011 to attend an International Meat Secretariat Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee. (IMS) Economics Committee Workshop, many weren’t sure “Everyone was excited to come and experience the Stampede, what to expect. to see Canada and to see our industry, and all of that The Workshop attracted 48 international meat industry happened successfully. economists from 18 countries as well as representatives “Most rewarding was to see the world’s top meat economists from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and gather in Calgary and come together in the spirit of our great Development (OECD) and the European Union (EU) Western culture and hospitality. Good work was done and a Commission. Held in the BMO Centre on Stampede Park, great time was had.” The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth set the stage for Workshop participants, who had been advised to leave their Getting Down to Work business attire at home and join in the Stampede spirit during The IMS Economics Committee Workshop was established to their time in Calgary. develop and improve members’ understanding of the factors “When the decision was made in 2010 to hold the next affecting the world’s beef, pork and sheep meat markets. The conference in Calgary, expectations were great,” says Ted first orkshopW was held in 2007 in Holland; the second in Haney, IMS Executive Council member, President of the 2010 in Uruguay. THE PROFILE 2012 7 The 2011 Calgary Workshop was sponsored by Agriculture and A post-Workshop tour took the participants to a progressive Agri-Food Canada and the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency, feedlot in High River and an extensive cow-calf operation in with the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Canadian Pork Southern Alberta where they saw the operation’s breeding and Council and Canada Pork International providing support to management programs first hand. the host organizing group led by Ted. The success of the Workshop was summed up by Bob Bansback, The three-day event saw speakers representing the beef, pork IMS Economics Committee Chair, who conducted the event. and lamb sectors from Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, “The Workshop proved to be a great success for the participants North America and Oceania present country reports. Sessions in two ways,” says Bob. “In the discussion on major topics, also covered the short-term world market situation as well we were able to take new insights home to our industries on as more in-depth coverage of specific issues of importance a whole range of issues; and during the opportunities for to the global meat industry. Guest speakers from the poultry relaxation with other delegates, many new friendships and and aquaculture sectors gave summaries of their industries’ contacts were made. In addition, we were able to enjoy the competitive forces over the next 20 years. unforgettable experience of the Calgary Stampede!” Interspersed with the business sessions, IMS guests experienced For more information on the International Meat Secretariat some authentic Western culture and hospitality, attending the and future workshops visit www.meat-ims.org chuckwagon races and Grandstand show, the International Lotte Elsgaard is a freelance writer in Calgary with over 15 Agriculture Reception and the Rodeo. The group used the years’ experience in agriculture technical and marketing International Room as its non-business gathering point, where material development and publishing. Lotte can be contacted they always found a warm welcome. at [email protected]

The Livestock Genetics Industry in Alberta – Past and Future The livestock genetics industry has a long history in Alberta, and the Calgary Stampede has been an active participant for over 100 years. By Douglas G. Blair

In the early years of the last century, the sale of purebred bulls province purchase purebred herd sires at these sales to improve was the main avenue of genetic improvement. Then, in the the genetics of their cattle herds. last half of the century, new technologies were introduced During the early twentieth century, the company supplying that enhanced the capabilities of genetic development. These the majority of the breeding stock was the Canadian Pacific included artificial insemination, performance ecorr ding and Railroad (CPR). To assist settlers in establishing their farms, embryo transfer. The most significant ecentr advance has been the CPR started a demonstration farm at Strathmore, Alberta, in the scientific area of genomics. in 1910. By the end of 1928, they had placed more than 10,000 Early beef breeders in Alberta worked mainly with Shorthorn, cattle, 1,000 horses, 1,300 swine and 7,000 sheep on Alberta Hereford and Aberdeen Angus cattle. Auction sales of beef farms. Much of this livestock was provided free of charge. bulls in Alberta have a long tradition. Breeders organized the Included in the cattle were Holsteins, Ayrshires, Aberdeen first bull sale at Stampede arkP in 1901. This year, The Calgary Angus and Hereford. The CPR Holstein herd became famous Bull Sale hosted their 112th annual sale at Stampede Park in as a seedstock herd and was recognized all over North America. February. Regional sales and private breeders’ sales occur Cows carrying the farm name ‘Strathmore’ won the All- throughout the province. An example of the longevity of this American award for the top 2-year-old ‘Holstein in Milk’ tradition is the Lacombe Bull Sale, which celebrates its 103rd three times in the 1930s. In the 80 years that this contest has annual sale in 2012. Commercial beef breeders throughout the been held, only one other herd has equalled this achievement.

8 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Embryo transfer multiplies the genetic impact of the best cows PHOTO: Alta Genetics 1989

The Canadian Pacific Railway, ecognizingr that the individual In 1965, a revolution occurred in the beef industry when Harry livestock breeders had taken a lead in genetic improvement, Hays, then Minister of Agriculture for Canada, authorized the dispersed all of their herds in 1943 and 1944. establishment of a Maximum Quarantine Station to permit Another large herd of Holsteins owned by the Hays family of the importation of cattle from Europe. These would be the Calgary became equally as famous as the CPR herd had been. first importations of beef cattle to North America since 1905. Hays Holsteins registered a total of 840 Holstein bulls in the The first group of Charolais were imported in 1966, followed 40-year period between 1918 and 1958 that were sold primarily by Simmental and Limousin in 1967 and 1968. Over the next in the Prairie Provinces, but also to many regions of Canada and seven years, many breeds were imported into Canada. the United States of America. A recent calculation of genetic There was instant demand for frozen semen from these origins of the Holstein breed in North America showed 95 imported bulls. The majority of the bulls were located in per cent of all Holsteins trace to a Hays bull. Both Strathmore Alberta and the other Prairie Provinces where no AI semen (CPR) and Hays showed their cattle at the Calgary Stampede collection facilities had been opened. To meet the demand for Dairy Show for more than 30 years. these genetics, two new semen collection facilities — Prairie Early in the 1940s, artificial insemination (AI) was introduced Breeders at Priddis, Alberta and Western Breeders Ltd. at in Canada. In 1943, Olds College, in co-operation with the Balzac, Alberta — began offering custom collection and semen Alberta Holstein Breeders Association and the Government marketing services. By 1974, there were seven semen-producing of Alberta, opened an AI Centre at the College. Bulls were businesses operating in Alberta. The AI industry conducted both leased from prominent Alberta breeders such as Hays training programs to teach more than 3,000 breeders and Farms of Calgary and Hosfords of Edmonton, and purchased ranchers to inseminate their own cows in the 1970s. by the Government of Alberta. Fresh semen was distributed This was a tremendous growth period in the use of AI in beef to technicians throughout the province who were employed cattle and is historically referred to as the ‘exotic breeds boom.’ by local AI co-operatives. This early AI Centre, operated as The established beef breeds known as the British breeds soon the Olds Livestock Breeding Club Ltd., focused primarily on adopted AI and became a major part of the beef AI industry. Holstein dairy bulls. At that time, the purebred beef breed The beef economy experienced a downturn in 1975 and only associations would not accept AI-sired calves for registration in Western Breeders — now Alta Genetics Inc. — of the original their herd books. In 1956, the unit ceased operations as local seven facilities is still in operation today. Alta Genetics has AI co-ops who employed the AI technicians began to buy frozen become one of the largest AI companies in the world exporting semen from Ontario and British Columbia. semen to more than 60 countries.

THE PROFILE 2012 9 Semen and embryos on their way to Brazil and Argentina 1987 On left Jaimie Ellehoi of Semaltex/Western Breeders

Holstein bull calf presented to Vice Premier of China Gordon Delair evaluating semen for freezing at Western Breeders

In 1971, an exciting new technology was introduced to Alberta to select dairy and beef cattle for breeding purposes. Genome and the world: embryo transfer (ET). Alberta Livestock Alberta, who is a partner in Genomic Canada, has many Transplant Ltd. of Calgary was the first commercial embryo research projects underway in the field of DNA analysis. Of transfer company in the world. The ET technology rapidly particular interest to the livestock genetic industry is the DNA improved and by 1983, non-surgical methods of harvesting and analysis of young animals for economically important traits. implanting embryos had been achieved and embryos had been It is now possible to know the relative genetic value of young successfully frozen. The ability to freeze embryos produced a animals with high reliability, speeding up genetic improvement. world export opportunity for Alberta beef and dairy breeders. Livestock genetic improvement in Alberta has a long history As an example, more than 15,000 embryos were exported to of continuous improvement and innovation. The Alberta Australia and Russia alone in the 1980s. Many transplant firms industry has been responsive and often the leader in Canada were established during the 1970s and 1980s. and the world introducing and improving new technologies. The international demand for Canadian breeding stock is The scale and expertise in the many facets of livestock genetic driven by the genetic quality and the healthy condition of improvements in Alberta bodes well for the future. Canadian cattle. The dairy and beef breeds have performance Douglas G. Blair is a member of the International Agriculture recording and evaluation systems as well as sophisticated genetic committee and is a co-founder of Western Breeders/Alta evaluation programs that document quality. This allows foreign Genetics and served as CEO for 35 years. He is an inductee in buyers to have complete confidence in Canadian cattle. the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame and may be reached at [email protected] Genomics is the latest technology to be introduced to livestock breeding. It is in the early adoption stage, but is already used

10 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE THE PROFILE 2012 11 New Agriculture Exhibit Wows Visitors

PHOTO: SHOWCHAMPIONS INC / BROWARNY

The Cattle Trail exhibit debuted at the 2011 Calgary Stampede. The exhibit tells the “gate to plate” story of Alberta beef. By Shannon Haney

The Cattle Trail begins with live animals and the people that “I felt the easiest way for the general public to understand raise them. Visitors are able to ask questions and learn about the process would be to take it from pasture to plate… and the high-quality genetics that help create a healthy animal with the Calgary Stampede totally endorsed it, ran with it, and strong yield. Moving along the Cattle Trail, visitors learn about broadened it far beyond my expectations,” says Donna. traceability tools, like ear tags, that play an integral role in herd health and food safety. The Cattle Trail allows for visitors to The Exhibit interact, ask questions, see, touch and feel some of the industry Alberta beef cattle herds account for 39 per cent of the technology that ensures they get delicious, nutritious and safe Canadian population and the 10-day festival provides an beef in local stores and restaurants. excellent opportunity to showcase this very complex and essential industry. Throughout the Cattle Trail Exhibit — The Background hosted in the agricultural complex on Stampede Park — the Early in 2010, Donna Smith, a seedstock producer from entire production cycle from pasture, cow/calf production, Olds, Alberta, and long-serving member of the Calgary herd management, genomics and genetics, veterinary care, Stampede Beef Cattle committee, suggested that it would be auction marts, feedlots, transportation, through to the a great advantage to have visitors to the Calgary Stampede butcher’s shop is on display in an interactive and educational understand and “see with their own eyes” the way in which presentation. Industry experts are involved at each ‘stop’ an animal moves through the production cycle from the along the trail to explain the process of the production cycle — pasture to the consumer’s plate. It is an idea that The Calgary including land/water resource management, the science of beef Stampede embraced and in 2011, the inaugural Cattle Trail cattle selection, record keeping and traceability at auction marts was presented. and consumer trends in the types and cuts of beef.

12 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE In addition to providing an exceptional educational resource and beef production. ALMA works with industry partners, for the consumers of Alberta meat products, the Cattle Trail including the Calgary Stampede, on initiatives that help allows the opportunity for local business and producers to Alberta’s meat and livestock industry become more competitive showcase their livestock and livestock products. Completely and sustainable. ALMA is proud to partner with the Calgary interactive, the Cattle Trail allows visitors of all ages to engage Stampede on their Cattle Trail display. in the learning process — children are encouraged to take home According to ALMA, “We think Alberta beef is the best and seed packs of wildflowers, a herd record book, an ear tag with know local and international consumers expect the best their name on it and much more. With a live animal display for their families. Alberta beef delivers.” ALMA’s strategic that tells the agriculture story and can educate both rural investment of more than $211,000 helped design and create and urban visitors, the focus on animal welfare, food safety, the interactive displays that help visitors better understand the natural product and resource management, and continuous cattle industry. improvement of health and nutrition for animals and consumers are the key messages to visitors. Be sure to stop at the Cattle Trail during your visit to the 2012 Calgary Stampede — we look forward to seeing you there! As with any initiative and undertaking of this magnitude, the Shannon Haney has been volunteering with the Calgary investment and support of the Alberta Livestock and Meat Stampede for over 10 years, and promises all visitors it will Agency (ALMA), and other industry partners helped take the be “an experience of their lifetime!” This sentiment has been Cattle Trail from concept to reality. The Cattle Trail aligns true for every person she has had opportunity to host. Please with ALMA’s priority to educate consumers about Alberta beef contact Shannon at [email protected]

Walt Browarny... The Man Behind The Camera The International Agriculture Committee lost a recently retired volunteer in 2011. Visitors to the International Room over the years will remember the quiet gentleman who was rarely found without a camera in his hands. By Norma Dunn

Over the past five decades, at any livestock show the question, “Has anyone seen Walt?” always meant that someone was looking for Walt Browarny, the world-famous livestock photographer from Calgary, Alberta. His premature passing will leave a noticeable void in show rings of the future. Walt’s career plan was sidetracked when he originally applied for a job at Imperial Oil’s Technical Research lab 1960s. The position was not yet available, so to compensate in the meantime, he was offered the opportunity to work in the photo lab. He never did leave photography. Having been given many opportunities to take livestock pictures for executives of his company, Walt made a decision to study livestock photography very seriously. In 1966, as a freelance photographer, he won the Canadian Press Award for a photo of a boy being bucked off a pony in the Little Britches Rodeo and the rest is history. Walt accomplished the best techniques by studying the type of animal and recognizing its best features in order to “bring them forward” in the photograph. Walt’s long-time friend Ted Pritchett said that Walt became the creator of untouched livestock photography thus making him the originator of the Browarny style in the industry. Ted also indicated that Walt could have been a professional football or hockey player or a top photographer in the competitive industrial field but chose livestock photography for which he would become recognized around the world.

PHOTO: SHOWCHAMPIONS INC / BROWARNY THE PROFILE 2012 13 “A man who will go anywhere, anytime, and come up with the camera, but he could not accomplish all that he achieved finest quality that the combination of human talent, metal and without the devotion of his entire family, namely his wife Marie glass mechanism, living creatures and weather can produce,” and his children, Allan and Shannon. Ted said about Walt in 1976. Walt’s legend will live on as Allan and Shannon have evolved the Walt was a master of time management as his clients depended Browarny Photography success and continue to be the premier on his ability to have the finished product delivered quickly photographers at livestock shows and have taken the business in order to meet their press deadlines. Walt’s gracious off- online at www.ShowChampions.com camera personality made him a very popular ambassador for the Allan is also a member of the Calgary Stampede International livestock industry wherever he travelled. Agriculture committee as his dad was for many years. Walt’s experience also took him to the Calgary Zoological Norma Dunn is is a member of the Calgary Stampede Society to not only become the official photographer but also an International Agriculture committee and on the Profile Associate Director. He accumulated the largest zoological bank Team. She has worked independently in communications and of photographs in Canada as well as livestock photos. promotions for 30 years in all aspects of Alberta livestock. Now retired in Okotoks, she refers to herself as having spent His work has been featured in Reader’s Digest and on a book “A Lifetime in Agriculture” yet still playing an active volunteer jacket produced in Germany, in addition to many recognitions role. She can be reached at [email protected] from clients and breed associations around the world. Browarny’s photograhic success came through total family involvement. Walt was no doubt the mastermind behind the

Spring Creek Ranch: Sustainable, Traceable Beef The Kotelko family wanted to add value to their family grain farm near Vegreville, Alberta. They have created an environmentally sustainable operation, a branded beef program, and most importantly, a profitable enterprise. By Tina Zakowsky

Even in its early days, the Kotelko family’s farm was fairly third company that the Kotelko family operates is Spring Creek progressive. A 1983 decision to buy calves to add value to the Ranch, a hormone- and antibiotic-free Angus beef program. family grain farm turned out to be one of the wisest business Twelve years ago, the family saw consumer demand for decisions the Kotelko family ever made. Bern Kotelko decided natural, traceable beef and began working with producers and to purchase 50 Angus and 50 Hereford calves in an attempt the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to meet that demand. to add value to the farm. That decision resulted in Highland When Bern’s daughter Kirstin graduated from university in Feeders, the 35,000 head capacity feed yard and cattle ranch 2006, her father handed her the responsibility of marketing that Bern runs today with his brother Mike. and distributing the family’s branded beef product to the Highland Feeders is one of three companies that evolved from consumer marketplace. the Kotelko family grain farm. Mike heads up Growing Power, Kirstin worked with producers raising Angus cattle, knowing Canada’s first integrated biorefinery, which converts manure that superior quality was just as important to consumers into bio gas energy and odorless bio fertilizer. Bern’s son as beef raised without hormones and antibiotics. There is Peter is the head engineer. Growing Power not only produces consumer demand for Angus beef, and Spring Creek Ranch enough power to sustain the ranch operations, they produce saw production benefits as well. orF example, the increased a surplus of energy that powers more than 3,000 homes. The AAA grading provided by the Angus cattle allowed Spring

14 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE PHOTO: Courtesy of Kotelko family

Creek Ranch to target high-end retailers and restaurants. The partnership will allow for expansion of the fresh product Angus cattle also offered a more consistent carcass weight and offerings to Canadian consumers. required fewer days on feed, resulting in decreased costs. Kirstin notes that they have also been fortunate to work with These advantages have been especially important in allowing Calgary Stampede Executive Chef Derek Dale from the launch the Spring Creek Angus beef program to grow. It is of their branded beef program. Kirstin was familiar with Derek’s challenging for hormone- and antibiotic-free beef to compete philosophy of buying and serving local product before Spring with commodity beef for consumer dollars. For that reason, Creek launched their beef program. The Calgary Stampede says Bern, Spring Creek targets discerning consumes who are ended up becoming one of Spring Creek’s first customers. looking for a higher quality product and who are willing to pay Spring Creek Angus beef is featured on Calgary Stampede more for it. menus at various functions throughout the year. Spring Creek also supplies the beef for beef on a bun sold at the grandstand The company has rigorous protocols that include Angus concessions. “It’s very exciting to be able to tell customers that genetics, dietary restrictions, accountability and traceability our beef is being served at the Stampede,” says Kirstin. and that prohibit the use of feed additives and supplementary hormones. The Kotelkos have a good network of producers Spring Creek is also proud to be a family operation. Bern’s wife and have no problem finding cattle that adhere to the Donna is involved in all three companies. Over the years, she has protocols. “Producers are more technologically savvy,” worked closely with Bern on procurement and producer relations. explains Kirstin. “They’re keeping better records and there She has also helped Kirstin with marketing, visiting chefs, hosting is a shift in their mentality. They’re seeing that it’s not so dinners at the ranch and pitching in wherever needed. hard to keep records and that the extra effort and return is While Spring Creek Ranch is enjoying success, they continue to profitable for them.” plan for expansion and even more success. “My hope for Spring Spring Creek Ranch has recently partnered with XL Lakeside, Creek Ranch,” says Kirstin, “is that it encourages the next a Canadian packing plant, to expand their beef program. generation to consider entering agriculture or taking over the The partnership will allow Spring Creek to grow their family farm.” She is very proud of the work that Spring Creek producer network, make more products available to Canadian Ranch has done to provide a different option for producers to consumers and will allow for some international expansion market cattle. to locations such as China. They predict that their output For more information, including locations to purchase Spring will quadruple in 2012. Currently, fresh and frozen Spring Creek Angus beef, visit http://springcreek.ca Creek Angus Beef can be found in Canada Safeway stores and Tina Zakowsky (née Schwartzenberger) is a member of frozen beef products can be found in Co-op, Sobeys and the International Agriculture committee and editor of the Save-On-Foods stores across Western Canada. A number Profile. She is currently on maternity leave from her job at of Alberta restaurants also carry Spring Creek Angus beef. the Canadian Angus Association. She may be reached at [email protected]

THE PROFILE 2012 15 16 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Celebrating our Centennial

The first Calgary Stampede was held in 1912. Guy Weadick organized it as a tribute to western heritage and values. Over the last 100 years, the Stampede has stayed true to that mandate. By Tina Zakowsky

PHOTO: Jack De Lorme photo

THE PROFILE 2012 17 For 10 days every July, the city of Calgary transforms into The Calgary Exhibition remained a modest annual event. a tribute to the Wild West era. Downtown lawyers and Then in 1908, a cowboy named Guy Weadick performed chief executive officers of multinational corporations in the exhibition as a trick roper. He was also a skilled trade their business suits for blue jeans and cowboy promoter who wanted to create a tribute show to the Wild boots. Companies decorate their office buildings and West. It took him four years, but he arranged $100,000 retail locations with corral fence boards and straw bales. in financing from a group of influential ranchers and Country music can be heard on nearly every corner. businessmen who came to be known as the Big Four: Locals and tourists gather for free pancakes and coffee. George Lane, Patrick Burns, A. J. McLean and A. E. Calgarians and visitors alike embrace the Stampede spirit Cross. With their financial support, the first Calgary and celebrate our western heritage and values. After 100 Stampede took place from September 2 – 7, 1912. years, there is no end in sight for this amazing festival with The event was a success. Guy arranged for 400 head of humble roots. Mexican steers and as many wild horses as he could find to Before there was a Calgary Stampede, there was a Calgary be brought to the Stampede grounds from nearby ranches. Exhibition. The Calgary and District Agricultural Society The funding provided by the Big Four meant $20,000 organized an exhibition that was held in October 1886. In in prize money drew top rodeo competitors from across 1889, the Calgary and District Agricultural Society acquired North America as it was nearly quadruple the prize money 94 acres of land from the Dominion of Canada and built offered at any other North American rodeo competition. a race track, cattle sheds and an exhibition building. This Nearly 2,000 First Nations people participated in the land remains the site of Stampede Park today. parade, which was attended by an estimated 80,000 people — an astonishing number because Calgary’s population

18 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE at the time was just over 60,000 people. The Duke of Guy convinced working ranches to enter their authentic Connaught and Princess Patricia watched the Stampede chuckwagons and roundup crews into the first Rangeland from a viewing box built especially for the Royal guests. Derby in 1923. The winner was the first team to round a Tom Three Persons of the Kainai First Nation won the figure-8 track and light a fire in his stove. Prizes totalled saddle bronc championship, the most coveted prize, $275. Bill Sommers, a stagecoach driver from the Yukon, for riding a horse named Cyclone to a standstill. The won the first Rangeland Derby. rodeo events at the first Stampede were much different In 1923, the Stampede was held in conjunction with the than today’s Stampede Rodeo. For example, there were Calgary Exhibition. The combined event was such a success, no chutes. In the bucking bronco event, horses were it has been held every July since then. blindfolded. The last cowboy or cowgirl who remained on horseback was declared the winner. The first Stampede breakfast was also held in 1923. A chuckwagon driver named “Wildhorse Jack” Morton Most of the major events offered a first prize of $1,000, a saddle and a gold belt buckle. Guy encouraged people to camped at the Canadian Pacific Railway station in dress western throughout the Stampede and offered cash downtown Calgary. Jack cooked his breakfast pancakes on a prizes for the best dressed cowboys, cowgirls, Indians and stove in the back of his chuckwagon and shared them with even store fronts. his friends. He began inviting people who were passing by to join them, giving birth to a Calgary Stampede tradition. Despite the success, the Stampede was not held again until Pancake breakfasts are held every day at various locations 1919. That year’s event was a “Great Victory Stampede” celebrating the end of the war. throughout the 10-day festival and are as integral to the Stampede as the parade, cowboy hats and calf roping.

THE PROFILE 2012 19 The Big Four The first Calgary Stampede Queen, atsyP Rodgers, was appointed in 1946. In 1947 a contest was held adding a princess to the Stampede Royalty, and in 1948 a second princess was added. The tradition of the Calgary Stampede Queen and Princesses continues today. 1946 also saw the debut of an internationally recognized symbol of the Calgary Stampede — the white cowboy hat. The Herron ranching/oil family wore the first white felt hats made by Smithbilt that year. In 1949, Mayor Don Mackay donned a white Smithbilt hat on a mission to promote Calgary and began handing out the white hat to visiting dignitaries. The white cowboy hat has become such a symbol of Calgary that white cowboy hats are often presented to visiting dignitaries and celebrities as a welcoming gift to Calgary. Guy Weadick’s last appearance at the Stampede was in the In 1912, Guy Weadick convinced four wealthy parade in 1952, one year before he died. He was inducted citizens to provide funding to establish the Calgary into the Canadian Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1982. Stampede, a tribute to the west and our cowboy The 1970s saw several significant developments for the heritage. The four citizens who funded Guy’s dream Stampede. The Calgary Stampede Showband led the were George Lane, Patrick Burns, A. J. McLean and Stampede parade for the first time in 1971. In 1976, A. E. Cross. attendance broke one million people for the first time. This attendance threshold has been met or exceeded at every Stampede since 1985. 1979 saw the first chuckwagon canvas George Lane and his partners purchased the Bar U Ranch. George was an excellent cowboy and a leader. He achieved auction, where businesses bid for advertisement space on the international recognition as a centre of breeding excellence chuckwagon canvasses. for cattle and purebred Percheron horses between 1902 The Stampede announced the “half million dollar rodeo” in and 1925. His world-class Percherons were bred to meet the 1982. Each main rodeo event competitor vied for a $50,000 demand for draught horses by homestead settlers. prize in the showdown, at the time the richest prize ever Patrick Burns enjoyed success in the ranching and meat offered in the history of the sport. Today’s Stampede Rodeo packing industries. The P. Burns and Co. Ltd. meat packing is still among the world’s richest rodeos, offering over $2 company was established in Calgary in 1890. It became one of the largest businesses of its kind in the world, with million dollars in prize money. branches in London, Liverpool and Yokohama. Patrick also Guy created a template for the Stampede. His vision was worked as a cattle buyer. He owned large amounts of land to have the city and First Nations people involved, to have which he used to raise cattle. good international ties, to invite celebrities, to have a good Archie (A. J.) McLean came to Alberta in 1886 to work with volunteer program, and of course, to have the ideal location. cattle. In 1887, he became manager of the CY Ranch of the This template has been followed for 100 years. Cypress Cattle Company near the southern Alberta town of Taber. He established his own company to ship cattle to the The Calgary Stampede is a non-profit organization British Isles. with approximately 350 full-time staff members, 3,500 Alfred Ernest (A. E.) Cross came to Calgary from Ontario in Stampede-time staff and 2,100 volunteers on 47 committees 1884 as a veterinarian and assistant manager of the British- who dedicate themselves to making sure that The Greatest American Horse Ranch Co. In 1885 he started his own ranch, Outdoor Show on Earth lives up to its name. After 100 years the A7 near the southern Alberta town of Nanton, thereby of changes and improvements, the Calgary Stampede shows becoming one of the West’s most prominent cattlemen. no signs of slowing down. Staff, volunteers, Calgarians and The A7 is still owned by the Cross family and remains one of visitors are all looking forward to seeing what the next 100 the largest ranches in the West. In 1892, Alfred founded the years will bring to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Calgary Brewing and Malting Co. Tina Zakowsky (née Schwartzenberger) is a member of All four of these men were also involved in politics. A. the International Agriculture committee and editor of the E. Cross, George Lane and (A. J.) McLean were elected Profile. She is currently on maternity leave from her job at members of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and Patrick the Canadian Angus Association. She may be reached at Burns was appointed to the Senate of Canada. They were [email protected] respected businessmen and great leaders.

20 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE More Than 100 Years of Trophies

The International Room features many trophies. Visitors enjoy looking at them but few know the history behind these symbols of achievement. By Todd Kimberley

PHOTO: Todd Kimberley

It is the picture of opulence, a veritable symbol of Western of the beef cattle industry in Western Canada,” says Mabel Canadian ranching royalty. Standing nearly three feet Hamilton, the president of the Alberta Cattle Breeders tall, and weighing upwards of 40 pounds, the Austin Association, which operates the Calgary Bull Sale. Trophy seems more emblematic of a century-old sporting The Austin Trophy is but one thread making up the competition than its true purpose —the annual prize for rich tapestry of agricultural achievement at the Calgary the best Hereford at the Calgary Bull Sale. Stampede, which marks its centennial celebrations in 2012. But this magnificent silver mug, presented by Leonard Take a stroll through the International Room on the P. Lord of Herefordshire, England, and first won by second floor of the Agriculture Building, and you’ll Warren Smith of Olds, Alberta, back in 1952, is probably see shelves upon shelves laden with trophies, plaques, worth more to the regional ranching community than the sculptures, bowls, cups, and bronzes commemorating Stanley Cup, the Grey Cup, and the Brier Tankard all achievement, perseverance, and dedication in the rolled into one. agricultural arena. “If you look closely at the names engraved on the Austin The International Room contains an estimated 70 pieces Trophy as a snapshot of our industry, you’re talking about of hardware that are still handed out annually at The progressive leaders for their time. It’s really a who’s who Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth — commemorating

THE PROFILE 2012 21 everything from bulls to heavy horses to dairy cattle to sheep “And Pat Burns, another of the Big Four, was a great to waterfowl. The Stampede’s archives department also has supporter of the Clydesdale breed. The two breeds became about 30 out-of-circulation trophies for competitions that great rivals, since these two men were great rivals in the are no longer held. show ring. The majority of these trophies are handed out every spring “I’ve never been able to verify this,” adds Bruce, “but the at the Calgary Bull Sale — the world’s oldest continuous old-timers have told me that the very first chuckwagon consignment bull sale, dating back to 1901. races were true chuckwagons, ranch-style, and the horses Prime examples include a pair of Alberta Aberdeen Angus that drew them, were Clyde/Clyde crosses from Burns and Association Trophies — one for the Best Group of Three Percheron/Percheron crosses from Lane.” Aberdeen Angus Bulls, one for the Best Pair of Aberdeen The dairy industry, too, has a special place in Stampede Angus Bulls — which were both won for the first time in lore. While the Stampede’s Dairy Classic is now held in the 1952 by Roy Ballhorn. spring, it too has continuous roots back to 1886 when it The Sir William Rootes Cup, presented to the owner of was first established at the Calgary and District Agricultural the Grand Champion Aberdeen Angus, first changed Society agfest. hands in 1957. Flint and Flint, the first winners, have been Still in circulation are such prizes as the George R. Longeway continuous consignors at the Calgary Bull Sale ever since. Memorial Trophy for Grand Champion Female Ayrshire, The Alberta Angus Breeders McBride Trophy may not be and the Francis Wright Memorial Trophy for Holstein all that old, with a 1998 introduction, but it’s surrounded Best Udder. by history. Lillian McBride, the matriarch of the McBride “People look to the Dairy Classic as the top show in Western family, is 100 years old, and Belvin Angus, which has Canada,” says Debbie Lee, who chairs the Stampede’s Dairy won the trophy six times, has been a Calgary Bull Sale Classic Championship Show committee. “It’s definitely consignor for four generations. become a tradition.” A good number of the trophies in the International The woolly ruminants are also worth their weight in silver, Room are dedicated to the magnificent beasts of the bronze and lacquered wood in the International Room. heavy horse industry. There’s the Starlight Koncarness The J.L. Quance Memorial Trophy, for the Best 5 Perpetual Trophy established by the Alberta Percheron Hampshire Rams, dates back to 1951, when it was won by Club in 1970, the George E. Church Memorial for the Dave Lewis. The Birks Trophy for Best Flock: Suffolk, Champion Percheron Team, the Keith Crawford Memorial Hampshire, and Southdown Sheep was first hoisted in 1952 for 3-Year-Old Percheron Mare, and the Earl F. James by C.H. Borwick of Drumheller, Alberta, while the Robert Memorial/Crystal J Percherons Trophy for Champion W. Hall Memorial Trophy, for Best 5 Suffolk Rams, was Team of Purebred Mares. originally captured in 1951 by P.J. Rock and Son. A heavy horse show has been part of Calgary’s agricultural “There have been sheep at the Stampede, in some capacity, fair since 1886, from the Calgary and District Agricultural since its inception. Back in the days when the Stampede Society fair to the Inter-Western Pacific Exposition started as an ag exhibition, more or less, every farm had Company agricultural and industrial fair to the Dominion a little bit of everything,” notes Pam Barker, longtime Exhibition to the Calgary Industrial Exhibition to the volunteer with the Stampede’s sheep committee. “Some of Stampede. the big cattle ranches also had big sheep flocks, so there’s “Historically, the Stampede has been the leading draft always been sheep at the Stampede in the same way as there horse show in Western Canada, and Alberta has long been a has always been horses and cattle.” centre for producing some of the best draft horses in North The Stampede is basking in some well-earned glory this America,” says Bruce Roy, a heavy horse historian who’s year, 100 years after Guy Weadick organized the very first been a Stampede volunteer since 1959. edition as a way of preserving the Western values that he “George Lane, who was one of the Big Four (the Stampede’s thought were already fading into the Alberta sunset. founders), operated the Bar U Ranch (now a national Visitors are invited to peruse the trophies in the historic site) south of Longview. The Bar U Ranch was International Room throughout the Stampede. the largest purebred Percheron operation ever seen in the world, and Lane was a great exhibitor at the Stampede, and the Calgary Industrial Exhibition, throughout his lifetime,” he adds.

22 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Celebrating 100 Years The Calgary Stampede marks its centennial in 2012, and the message The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth is sending out to the city, the province, the country and the world is: We’re Greatest Together!

“The focus of the Centennial has always been on the Something about Calgary inspired Guy and set his Stampede looking outward to the community, versus showman’s imagination to work. Guy’s vision was for a looking inward and having our own celebration,” says Laura celebration of the frontier. In 1912, Guy returned to the Babin, the Stampede’s Centennial Strategist. “The history city and found backing from the “Big Four” — prominent is important — looking back and paying tribute — but so is businessmen who could see the vision and were prepared looking forward and seeing what the Stampede looks like in to back it with their own resources. The only qualification the years ahead.” placed on their sponsorship by George Lane, A. E. Cross, The Stampede will celebrate five main themes as it prepares Patrick Burns and A. J. McLean was that both visitors and for its Centennial: create, dress, ride, dine and dance. participants receive “a square deal”. The not-for-profit The first is Create — after all, the Stampede is a creation built organization that operates today’s Stampede still keeps that on the energy and vision that built Calgary and Alberta. guideline in mind. Not long after the founding of the city of Calgary, an A new initiative created for the Stampede’s Centennial is agricultural society was formed to promote the settlement the My Stampede program that encourages visitors to share and development of a land filled with potential. The their past Stampede experience on a space reserved on the first Calgary Exhibition was held in 1886. In 1908 the Stampede’s website. “Videos, photos, poems,” enthuses annual exhibition was honoured as Canada’s Dominion Laura. “Everybody’s Stampede is different, but it has been Exhibition. One of the attractions at the very successful interesting to see the wonderful pictures and stories. Some event was a Wild West show that counted among its amazing moments are being shared.” attractions a trick roping cowboy named Guy Weadick.

THE PROFILE 2012 23 Agriculture Centennial Another Centennial theme is Dress, and it would be hard to talk about Celebration Zone Stampede dress without thinking of a white hat. Created for the Herron family to wear in the 1947 Stampede Parade, the white hat became the symbol of the enthusiastic crowd of the Calgary Stampeders football team supporters who went to Toronto for the 1948 Grey Cup. Before long, being “white-hatted” was part of the city’s greeting ceremony for VIPs — Prince Philip got his first one in 1951 — and even the city’s flag has a white hat on it. Ride is another Centennial theme — and a pretty obvious one. The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth is one of the world’s great celebrations of the horse culture of the western plains. The original inhabitants had notable horse skills, and among the first Europeans to come and settle where the Bow River meets the Elbow River were a detachment of Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The cattle ranching culture was next, bringing with it the heroic figure of the cowboy on horseback. All of these elements — First Nations, Mounties and cowboys — are, and always have been, mainstay features of the Stampede. The Stampede could even be said to owe its location to a horse — specifically, The Agriculture Centennial Celebration the horse that threw Canada’s Deputy Minister of the Interior while he was Zone will be open daily throughout the touring the Calgary area in 1884. The man from Ottawa was taken to the 2012 Calgary Stampede in the Victoria home of Major James Walker to recover from a broken collarbone. Major Pavilion. The Victoria Pavilion served as Walker was one of the leading proponents of the idea of an agricultural the centre of the Stampede’s agricultural exhibition for Calgary and likely mentioned this interest to his guest on activities for decades. The Agriculture occasion. The Major thought a piece of land in a bend of the Elbow River, Centennial Celebration Zone is open although it was a fair way out of town, would make an excellent exhibition to everyone and especially welcomes ground. Perhaps the Deputy Minister was convinced, perhaps he was just back former volunteers, exhibitors, grateful, but the area that is now Stampede Park was duly purchased by the participants, sponsors and champions Calgary Agricultural Society with the stipulation that it would always be from a century’s worth of agricultural reserved for exhibitions. competitions and exhibitions. When they were out on the range, cowboys ate at a mobile kitchen called a Throughout the 2012 Stampede, the chuckwagon. Occasionally, overcome by the competitive atmosphere of a rodeo, Agriculture Centennial Celebration Zone informal races were held. For the 1923 Stampede, Guy, now the manager of the will feature engaging displays representing combined annual Exhibition and Stampede, decided to formalize the contest various Stampede agricultural activities, and organized the predecessor of today’s Rangeland Derby. including the World Championship That wasn’t the only Stampede tradition started by the chuckwagons. One of Blacksmiths Competition, the Heavy Horse the outfits in attendance for that firstace r took their rig downtown and cooked Pull, the Cutting Horse Competition, breakfast for the public. For years afterwards, this was a common practice among Draft Horse Town, the World Stock Dog the wagon racers. Championship and the North American Another Centennial theme is Dine, and the myriad of Stampede Breakfasts Sheep Shearing Challenge, just to hosted by community and social groups, businesses and politicians during name a few. These agricultural exhibits Stampede week is a vital part of the spirit of fun that makes the Calgary Stampede will be showcased as part of a daily such a great party. rotating spotlight. The final Centennial theme is Dance. Certainly there are lots of dance images The Agriculture Centennial Celebration connected with the Stampede. Anyone who has seen the astonishing artistry and Zone will provide a vibrant representation athleticism of a native hoop dancer is unlikely ever to forget it. A roomful of of the Stampede’s rich agricultural past, people in western dress always looks like a square dance is about to happen as with live animal exhibits, a speaker’s soon as the fiddler gets there. Calgary’s rich mosaic of ethno-cultural groups corner, beautifully restored farm offer a remarkable variety of dances. Really, though, dance is a theme because, equipment, volunteers dressed in period well, that’s just what you do at a party! Come help us celebrate as We’re Greatest attire, and more. Together! For more information, visit calgarystampede.com/mystampede or calgarystampede.com

24 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE World Hereford Conference Legacy

As Calgary prepares to host the 2012 World Hereford Conference in Calgary in July, it brings back memories of the 7th World Hereford Conference (WHC) that Canada had the privilege of hosting in 1976. By Norma Dunn and Perry Wilkes

The 1976 WHC was attended by delegates and observers from scale breeding programs to expedite the genetic improvement 18 member countries. Invitations were sent to an additional 34 of domestic cattle. countries, eight of which responded and sent representatives to Other issues dealt with by delegates attending the World the Conference. This milestone event introduced the world to Hereford Council meetings were related to the reciprocal Alberta’s outstanding beef cattle genetics. recognition of pedigrees between member countries. These The World Hereford Council was formed in July of 1951 in issues were soon resolved and as the technology and health Hereford, England, when representatives from Great Britain, protocols were developed, live cattle, semen and embryos the United States, Canada, Argentina, Uruguay, South Africa, were easily exchanged between member countries throughout New Zealand and Ireland met to form this new governing the world. body. At the 4th WHC held in Dublin, Ireland, in June of 1964, the aims of the Council were focused on maintaining Canada’s bid for the 7th World Hereford Conference was the purity of the breed and spreading the genetic influence successful and that’s when the work started. Determined to of the breed to developed and developing countries. Working stage a world-class event, the Canadian Hereford Association closely with the United Nations Food and Agricultural directors and manager, and the presidents and managers of Organization in developing countries, the World Hereford the provincial associations, came together to start planning Council spearheaded a program to provide semen to large- for 1976.

THE PROFILE 2012 25 Local Ranching Family Keep in mind that the planning was taking place before memory typewriters, Celebrates the Calgary fax machines and the Internet. Long-distance phone calls were expensive, Stampede and the 2012 World especially overseas calls, and international travel was not as inexpensive and common as it is today. No less than 11 committees were established to address, Hereford Conference plan and carry out all of the details related to every detail surrounding

By Kerrie Harvie Conference events. It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that The Banff Springs Hotel was selected as the headquarters for the World Canada welcomes the 2012 World Hereford Hereford Conference meetings. However, the beautiful setting in the Conference. Cattlemen from around the world Rocky Mountains which attracts tourists from all over the world was not to will come to Alberta, Canada in July 2012 to everyone’s liking. One committee member said “Why are we taking people up view Canadian Hereford genetics and have the to Banff to look at a pile of rocks?” opportunity to experience the Calgary Stampede I do not think there was anyone in attendance, including the person Centennial celebrations. previously quoted, who did not agree that the Rocky Mountain site was an The Harvie family, Hereford breeders from excellent choice. Central Alberta, is very fortunate to host and Topics covered in 1976 included chromosome research being conducted in partake in this great event. They plan on taking Australia, carcass evaluation, standardization of performance and progeny Hereford steers to the Calgary Stampede to testing of bulls, and vaccines for cancer eye control. When the formal participate in the UFA Steer Classic competition business and Council discussions wrapped up in Banff, it was off to Calgary taking place on Saturday, July 14, where they will be competing for the Grand Champion Hereford for the World Hereford Conference show staged at The Greatest Outdoor Steer. If successful, they will be eligible for the Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede. Calgary Stampede Overall Champion, competing The show was held in the 3,500 seat Corral at the Calgary Stampede. against all other breeds. Canadian Hereford and Polled Hereford breeders brought the best they had As the Harvies compete in the UFA Steer Classic, and visitors enjoyed seeing over 600 head of Canada’s best Herefords. It the other Hereford Conference guests will have was a great boost for Canadian breeders as several offshore breeders bought the opportunity to experience the Calgary Canadian Genetics. Stampede, taking in the rodeo, chuckwagon races Norma Dunn, a member of the Canadian Hereford Association living and grandstand performance and many other in Calgary, was asked to take an active role in structuring of the women’s exhibits on display. program. Norma’s involvement ended up covering a far broader range of As the Calgary Stampede comes to a close, the activities than the women’s program, for which Duncan Porteous was forever delegates will move north to the rural community grateful. Norma continues to contribute to the Calgary Stampede as a of Olds, Alberta, where the World Hereford Cattle member of the International Agriculture committee. show will take place on July 16 and 17. The World The post-conference tours were well attended by overseas visitors and Hereford Conference will come to a close on July Canadian cattle producers. There were over 1,000 people in attendance at 18 with a Rancher Day and a farewell barbecue the field day held at B & H Herefords at Millet, Alberta. The tours of farms dinner and closing ceremonies. and ranches throughout Canada gave visitors the opportunity to meet and The Harvie family is excited to host international mingle with purebred and commercial cattle producers in a more relaxed guests as they are proud Hereford ranchers and atmosphere. The farm and ranch tours provided the opportunity for visitors, this will provide a once-in-a-lifetime platform to especially overseas visitors, to ask questions and become more familiar with market their genetics to other Hereford breeders Alberta’s outstanding beef cattle genetics. from around the world. Keith Jones, Vice-Chair of the International Agriculture committee, Visit www.hereford.ca for all the World Hereford remembers the excitement and achievement of these tours. “We worked Conference details. for six weeks to prepare Jones Hereford Ranches at Balzac to host our field Kerrie Harvie, P.Ag. is a member of the day, and it was a tremendous business success. The 1976 conference, show International Agriculture committee. and tours facilitated semen and embryo sales from Alberta to the United She is extremely passionate about the agriculture industry and embraces it in Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Uruguay and Sweden. In 1982, Don both her professional and personal life. Anderson from Inverary Herefords in Australia bought the Australian Alongside her husband Scott Harvie, they semen rights to our Calgary Bull Sale Reserve Champion bull “85L”. Don live on a ranch near Olds, Alberta, raising was one of the Australians who first visited Canada during the 1976 World top seedstock including Polled Herefords, Hereford Conference, admired the quality of Canadian Hereford genetics, Charolais and Simmental. She can be and went on to sell and use over a quarter million dollars worth of semen reached at [email protected] on “85L” in Australia.”

26 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE After spending so much time planning and executing all of the picture on the Internet. They cannot wait to travel abroad to activities required to stage the last World Hereford Conference observe the bull or embryo donor of the genetics they have held in Canada, it was gratifying to everyone involved the purchased. positive impact the Conference had on the demand for Canadian Hereford genetics. Norma Dunn is is a member of the Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee and on the Profile The world of communications has changed dramatically since Team. She has worked independently in communications and 1976 with Google, Wikipedia, the Internet, webinars, websites, promotions for 30 years in all aspects of Alberta livestock. Twitter, Facebook, Linked In… the list goes on and on. Now retired in Okotoks, she refers to herself as having spent Information is just a click away and covers just about everything “A Lifetime in Agriculture” yet still playing an active volunteer a person would want. role. She can be reached at [email protected] The cattle business isn’t much different. Many breeders have Perry Wilkes is the former Executive Director of the Canadian purchased semen or embryos overseas through the personal Hereford Association and a former partner in Western Breeders Ltd. which became Alta Genetics Inc. recommendation of a friend or fellow breeder, or from a

Distinguished Honour for One of The Calgary Stampede’s Own Dr. David Chalack, past President and Chair of the Calgary Stampede, was inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame for his contributions to the Canadian agriculture industry. By Shannon Haney

The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame honours and celebrates Canadians for outstanding contributions to the agriculture and food industry and publicizes the importance of their achievements to Canada. In 2011, Dr. Chalack joined the ranks of Canada’s most influential individuals when he was inducted into this prestigious institution. He is the youngest person to receive this honour. Dr. Chalack’s contributions to the agriculture industry in Canada are substantial. A strong advocate and expert in livestock genetics, Dr. Chalack has had a significant impact on the development of and the investment within this industry in Canada. A veterinarian by profession, Dr. Chalack has proven his leadership and commitment to the agricultural industry through his involvement on many industry boards of directors including the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency (ALMA), Alberta Ingenuity Centre for Livestock Genomics and the Advisory Board for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Dr. Chalack is also the president of Rocky Mountain Holsteins Inc. and is the Canadian Sales and Marketing Director for Alta Genetics Inc. Dr. Chalack served as President and Chairman of the Board of the Calgary Stampede in 2009 and 2010. He has been commended for his “greening” initiatives to make Stampede Park more environmentally friendly. He has also been commended for his vision and efforts toward transforming Stampede Park into a future year-round inner-city park destination for Calgarians. The members of the Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee wish to extend their congratulations to Dr. David Chalack on this most deserved achievement! Shannon Haney has been volunteering with the Calgary Stampede for over 10 years, and promises all visitors it will be “an experience of their lifetime!” This sentiment has been true for every person she has had opportunity to host. Please contact Shannon at [email protected] PHOTO: Tracy Lamb, Mopani Communications

THE PROFILE 2012 27 Local Farmers Honoured as Alberta’s 2011 Outstanding Young Farmers Canadian Program Honours Young Farmers Who Are Outstanding in Their Field Each fall, leaders from Canada’s agriculture industry gather to honour the winners from

Matt and Tara Sawyer were selected as Alberta’s the Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ Outstanding Young Farmers in 2011 to represent program. The program is an annual competition Alberta at the national Outstanding Young Farmers’ that recognizes farmers that demonstrate awards program. excellence in the field of agriculture and The couple operate a mixed grain and beef operation at Acme, Alberta. Matt began farming in 1993, contribute to the promotion of the industry. renting 360 acres from his grandfather. They now By Jenn Norrie farm 2,500 acres of a 4,500 acre operation of owned and rented land. Their focus is in grains and oilseeds with a small herd of 50 commercial Black Angus Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ program is open to participants influenced cattle, grazing on marginal land. 18 – 39 years of age where the majority of their income is generated from on-farm sources. Participants are selected from seven regions across The Sawyers have made progress and improvements to their operation through implementation of Canada. The seven regional winners go on to represent their respective environmental stewardship initiatives, such as regions at the National Awards Program, where they are recognized for adopting no-tillage practices. their achievements and judged by a distinguished panel during oral interviews and a presentation on their farming operation using the On the cattle side of their operation, they sell their calves to a small feedlot that allows them to monitor following criteria: their performance and offer a traceable, branded • Progress made during their farming career beef product to consumers. • Maximum utilization of soil, water and energy conservation practices “The Sawyers have found a terrific balance in their • Crop and livestock production history farm operation — building a productive operation with stewardship initiatives while working in time • Financial and management practices to actively participate and support their industry • Contributions to the well-being of the community, province and nation and community through volunteer work,” says Derek Janzen, Western Vice-President of Canada’s Two of the seven honourees are chosen by the judges to be named Outstanding Young Farmers. Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers. Both Matt and Tara are involved in their community 2012 marks the thirty-second year of the Canada’s Outstanding Young with 4-H and their local Elks and Order of the Royal Farmers’ Program. The National Event will be held in Charlottetown, Purple Lodges. Tara volunteers at their children’s PEI, from November 27 to December 2, 2012. school and as a soccer coach. Matt graduated from Olds College with a diploma in agricultural The program maintains its vitality through the continued support of production and is the chairman of the Alberta Barley its alumni members, national sponsorship by organizations such as Commission and serves as a director of the Western CIBC, John Deere, Bayer CropScience and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canadian Wheat Growers Association. Canada and is supported by AdFarm and the Canadian Farm Business The Sawyers operate their farm with their three Management Council. children, ages 10, 8 and 6. For more information on Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ Program Further information on Alberta’s Outstanding please visit www.oyfcanada.com. Young Farmers’ Program can be found at Jenn Norrie is an agriculture enthusiast and loves to travel, whether www.oyfalberta.com it is around Alberta or around the world. She can be reached at [email protected]

28 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Lamb: Alberta’s Other Red Meat

Alberta has always been known as beef country, but with worldwide shortages of lamb, Alberta producers are stepping up to the plate to contribute to the domestic demand for lamb. By Megan Oleksyn

In recent years there has been a they thought was lamb in the past. Most of the time, these folks steady increase in lamb production had tried mutton and were turned off by the strong smell and across the province and now that taste. We have been able to convert a lot of people that were consumers are demanding more, adamant they did not like lamb after they realized how mild and many producers are trying their tender ours is,” he comments proudly. hand in this lucrative industry. Restaurants are also starting to offer more diverse lamb A 2004 survey by Serecon options, helping to expose different means of adding lamb to Management Consulting Inc. a meal outside of the typical chops. We are seeing unique and forecasted that the demand for innovative dishes across Alberta as chefs create meals utilizing lamb in Canada would increase lamb in creative, delicious ways consumers thought impossible. by 40 per cent by 2020, and that These innovations are helping to shed a new light on local food trend is already being exceeded. and offer a local, fresh source of red meat. With 50 per cent of lamb in Canada imported from Australia When asked why he got into the lamb business, Shayne was and New Zealand, at a time when these countries are suffering quick to share, “We were encouraged to produce lamb because adverse weather conditions and increasing production costs, we have a small land base, which meant we needed to find the result is a worldwide shortage of lamb. Alberta producers small animals so that we could raise enough of them to be have recognized the world supply shortfall and are increasing economical. We also did a lot of research into the profitability domestic production to meet the Canadian demand for lamb. of ranching and realized that there was a lack of supply Margaret Cook of the Alberta Lamb Producers (ALP) points of Alberta lamb to satisfy the significant demand.” After out that it is not just new producers entering the market, but significant esearr ch into the lucrative industry, Tangle Ridge also beef and hog producers converting their operations to Ranch was up and running. “We believe that if we take care of join the profitable lamb industry. The ALP is supporting the land and water, it will take care of us. This is the principle this growth by increasing both the resources and tools for we use every day to produce a lamb product that is not only new and experienced producers alike, to encourage increased delicious, but is sustainable for years to come,” he concludes. productivity and profitability. With this steady growth over the years, producers have been “This market is continually expanding as consumers are forced to adapt their production practices to meet the increased actively seeking locally produced and sustainable products,” demand. The ALP is promoting a business-focused approach says Margaret. She also says that many consumers are buying to lamb production, encouraging producers to utilize good lamb because they are looking for different experiences and information to enable them to make sound management are finding lamb to be a versatile, healthy red meat alternative. decisions for their operations. Alberta producers are In particular, baby boomers and “foodies” are buying lamb leading the country in taking advantage of radio-frequency on a regular basis, both to cook at home as well as ordering identification (RFID) technology to help them gather in restaurants. This increased demand is also supported by information to improve their management practices. the traditional and religious preferences of the rising ethnic “Producers need to have good control of their costs and operate population in Canada. a profitable business,” says Margaret. Even the government Alberta lamb producer Shayne Horn, co-owner of Tangle recognizes this growing sector and the ALP has been working Ridge Ranch near Thorsby, Alberta, also attributes lamb’s with them to provide producers with affordable access to growing popularity to culinary trends and advancements. “We working RFID systems to facilitate traceability and increase see people who have had negative experiences with eating what management benefits.

THE PROFILE 2012 29 PHOTO: courtesy of Shayne Horn

Lamb Facts: Shayne agrees that the data that can be tracked with RFID technology is very beneficial • As of July 1, 2011, the number of sheep to making management decisions on farm and applauds the new government funding on Canadian farms increased 2.2% to assistance. “By offering funding for the equipment (which is expensive) it makes it 1.1 million head from the same date in affordable for the average lamb producer, and helps us to become more competitive,” 2010. he says. • Canada exported 3,000 lambs during And competitive they shall be. To help spread the word that Alberta lamb producers the first half of 2011 after four years of are becoming a force to be reckoned with, the Calgary Stampede Sheep Showcase virtually non-existent exports. returned in 2011. Featuring activities and events for everyone from consumers to international visitors to the many Alberta lamb producers who attended, the Sheep • New Zealand is the world’s largest lamb exporter, shipping 340,000 tonnes a Showcase highlighted the diversity of the industry. The two-sided exhibit promoted all year, 10 times more than its closest aspects of the lamb and sheep industries. One side displayed live animals and videos competitor. to teach visitors about animal husbandry and best management practices, while the other side was set up like a bistro café to demonstrate the diverse products while also • Lamb is meat from sheep under one allowing attendees to email recipes to themselves. year old; mutton is from sheep more than one year old. It appears that the pieces are all in place for lamb to take its place alongside beef in the Alberta red meat category. Consumer demand is increasing, producers are stepping • There is evidence that sheep were up to the plate and an industry is eager to promote a versatile product — all the domesticated by 8900 BCE in Iraq and Romania. Some of the oldest traditional elements of success. recipes from Greece date back several For more information on Alberta Lamb Producers, visit www.ablamb.ca thousand years. Megan Oleksyn is the owner of southpaw communications, a strategic communications, Source: Statistics Canada PR, media and branding company that focuses on helping grassroots organizations and www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/23-011-x/23- small or rural businesses. Originally from a ranch in northern Saskatchewan, Megan is 011-x2011001-eng.pdf still a self-described agvocate and works educating consumers on food production and promoting local products. Contact her at [email protected]

30 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Sponsor Profile:

PHOTO: courtesy of Elanco

Elanco: a company with an eye on more than the bottom line. By Tanya Currie

Communities are built, in part, on the idea that individuals agricultural and animal health products such as antibacterials, come together to reach common goals. On a smaller scale, parasiticides, anticoccidials, productivity enhancers, feed sponsorship is also based on achieving common goals. This additives, pet medicines, and food safety solutions to more year’s sponsor profile sheds light on Elanco, one of the than 75 countries. Calgary Stampede International Agricultural committee’s Beyond the high-quality, safe products that Elanco brings (IAC) valued sponsors. to the world market, the company’s dedication to corporate With Elanco’s focus on positively influencing the beef industry citizenship might be its most admirable quality. One example and the IAC’s mission to “bring members from the world of Elanco’s corporate citizenship is their support of Heifer agricultural community together to share ideas, to facilitate International (www.heifer.org), which aids communities from business opportunities, and to foster friendship and cultural developing countries in producing affordable food. Together understanding,” sponsoring the IAC is a good fit. According with Heifer International’s help, 100,000 families will be to Brent Difley, Manager Business Development Canada/ lifted out of poverty in a sustainable manner. Latin America, by engaging with the IAC, Elanco “supports Companies sponsor for a variety of reasons: to gain name organizations that shape the future of the Canadian agriculture recognition, get their message heard, or support organizations and livestock industry,” in which Elanco is invested. that hold similar beliefs, to name a few. According to Brent, From modest beginnings providing antibiotics to Elanco partners with organizations that “represent our industry veterinarians, Elanco has grown over the last 50 years into and will have an impact on the future of the Canadian Beef an international company that researches and develops industry. The [IAC] is a great example of such an organization.”

THE PROFILE 2012 31 32 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE IAC programs, such as hosting in the International Room, Elanco’s focus on research and development, corporate the International Agriculture Reception, the International citizenship, and feeding the world highlights some of the Agriculture outreach booth in the Cattle Trail and publishing reasons they are the feature sponsor of this year’s Profile Profile magazine, allow Elanco to connect with industry magazine. Clearly, Elanco is a company whose vision includes partners, customers and stakeholders. Additionally, by more than just the bottom line. sponsoring the IAC, Elanco has an international platform to For more information about Elanco’s many philanthropic positively influence decision makers in beef production, both in efforts focused on world hunger, the human-animal bond, Alberta and Canada, and communicate their message to “apply agricultural leadership, the environment and community safe, new and proven technologies to food production now and service, visit www.elanco.com in the future.” Tanya Currie is a stay-at-home mom and aspiring freelance agricultural writer. Currently surrounded by the trappings of inner-city life, she feels most at home on the back of a fast horse out in the rural Alberta landscape of her youth. She can be contacted at [email protected] Canola: A Canadian Success Story The beautiful yellow-flowered fields you see as you fly into Calgary or drive through southern Alberta during Stampede time are a great Canadian success story. The crop is canola, and from its seeds come one of the world’s healthiest food oils. Canola oil’s healthy advantage has earned customers all over the world and made canola a huge contributor to the Canadian economy. By Jay Whetter

Canola was developed in Western Canada in the late 1960s. Producers Commission. “Canola excels in temperate climates. Plant scientists used traditional plant breeding methods to It cannot achieve such low saturated fat levels when grown in remove erucic acid and glucosinolates from rapeseed and areas that do not have warm days and cool nights.” come up with a new crop that hit on two valuable needs for Canola meal, which is the high protein feed source left over Prairie agriculture: a highly desirable food oil from a plant after you squeeze out the oil, is an important feed ingredient well adapted to our northern growing conditions. The name for livestock producers. California is the top export destination Canola comes from the words “Canadian oil, low acid”. for Canadian canola meal. Dairy producers in California, the What makes canola oil healthier than other oils and fats? A largest milk-producing state in the U.S., use canola meal to few things, actually. Canola oil has 50 per cent lower saturated boost milk output by one litre per cow per day compared to fat than both olive oil and soybean oil (most “vegetable oil” is diets without canola meal. China is another large meal market soybean oil). Saturated fat raises the bad cholesterol in blood where dairy producers are interested in this one-litre-per-cow- and has been linked to increased risk of coronary heart disease. per-day benefit. Canola oil also compares to olive oil in monounsaturated fat Canada exported $7.4 billion worth of canola oil, meal and content, which may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease seed in 2010 – 2011 and could exceed that total this year. The by lowering bad cholesterol in the blood and helping control U.S. is the biggest market, with China, Japan and Mexico blood glucose. Canola oil is high in omega-3 fat, which rounding out the top four. The domestic market is also helps protect against heart attacks and strokes, and canola oil important. Canola is the most popular food oil in Canada. contains no trans fat. Overall, canola contributes over $15 billion to the Canadian “Canada’s summer climate — with its warm days and cool economy each year. Canola generates more farm income nights — is a key factor in producing canola’s healthy oil than any other crop in the country, making it an important profile,” says Simone Demers Collins, market development crop for Canada’s 43,000 canola growers. Canola also and promotions coordinator with the Alberta Canola generates thousands of jobs in research, grain handling,

THE PROFILE 2012 33 PHOTO: Courtesy of the Canola Council of Canada

transportation, marketing and processing. New global term,” says Greg Sekulic, Canola Council of Canada agronomy demand for canola oil prompted a building boom in specialist in Alberta. “Our goal is to make canola the key part Canada’s oilseed crushing capacity. of an economically viable and environmentally sustainable crop Two new facilities in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, as well as rotation that includes cereals such as wheat and barley, and expansion at a number of other sites across the country have legume crops such as peas and lentils.” doubled Canada’s canola crush in the past five years. New To find out more about canola oil and canola production while facilities are also being constructed to produce biodiesel made visiting the Calgary Stampede, stop by the Canola Learning from oilseeds, creating another way for canola to contribute Centre, located in the Ag-tivity in the City tent. You can talk to the economy. In Alberta, several facilities also specialize in with people involved in the canola industry, collect recipes that “cold-pressed canola oil”, which is an alternative to extra virgin showcase all the different uses for canola oil, and see and feel olive oil. Cold-pressed canola oil retains its bright colour and canola seed. flavour, and is becoming very popular in high-end estaurr ants “Families make a beeline for the booth every year to play in the throughout Alberta. canola seed boxes,” Simone says. “The boxes are filled with Growth will continue. The canola industry has set a target to canola seed and have lots of toy farm machinery in them for reach 15 million tonnes of canola production and sales per kids to play with.” year by 2015. The target was set in March 2007 when canola The Canola Learning Centre’s theme for 2012 is “history” production in Canada was 9 million tonnes. In 2011, Canadian in honour of the Stampede’s centennial. The booth will farmers grew 14 million tonnes of canola, with 5.3 million celebrate canola’s history, and offer visitors “Fields of Home,” tonnes of that total grown in Alberta. It is expected that a new a children’s book written by Dawn Ius and illustrated by James record in excess of 15 million tonnes will be reached in 2012, Grasdal. three years ahead of the industry’s goal. Simone uses three key words – local, healthy and versatile – to “With improvements in yield and in efficient use of inputs, underscore her canola marketing efforts in Alberta. These growers can achieve these target production levels while keeping same healthy and versatile characteristics have made canola oil canola acres at less than one-quarter of all arable acres in desirable all over the world, as well. Western Canada — a level considered sustainable for the long

34 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Locally Produced Food Inspires Both Southern Albertans and Global Visitors To stay successful in farming, many operations have diversified into uncharted territory. The result is a grassroots movement toward the production of unique, locally produced food products that often combine a measure of southern Alberta history with a pinch of community building. by Robin Galey

In Alberta, diversification in agriculture has produced both a When the family planted 20 acres of black currants a decade grassroots community movement and a wide range of successful ago, it was a major turning point. “Once we started growing business ventures targeted to small niche markets. Diversifying black currants and people started coming out to the u-pick, we a farming operation for profitability can take many forms, found they were also coming here to the farm setting to picnic from agri-tourism and u-pick berries to specialty meat and get away for a little time out. We realized that agri-tourism products or home-baked honey-sweetened apple pies. was going to be a really good fit for us,” says Judy. Some southern Alberta producers have diversified in The family developed an agri-tourism venture called Sunshine profitable directions that support the local food movement, Adventure Park. Families come out to enjoy the large outdoor built one-on-one connections between farmers and play structures and an inflatable trampoline built into the customers and preserve the ecological sustainability of the ground. They can also enjoy picnicking, wandering through the southern Alberta landscape. garden centre or greenhouse, picking fruit and locally sourced gourmet food on the patio at JoJo’s Café. “Our daughter Stephanie is the chef, and we have a garden and Kayben Farms: greenhouse here that provide produce and herbs for the café. Beyond that, we use as many local producers for ingredients Currants are Always in Season as we can — including for elk, bison, grains and honey,” says Claude and Judy Kolk have developed a successful agriculture- Judy. The restaurant also provides a banquet space for business based business on 154 acres just off Highway 2 between Calgary meetings and Christmas parties. and Okotoks. They bought the property as an investment in the JoJo’s Café and the Garden Centre are open May through 1990s while Claude was pursuing a career outside of farming as mid-December. Sunshine Adventure Park is open May through an engineer and Judy was a stay-at-home mom. October. For more information, visit www.kayben.com They have slowly transformed it into a unique business offering a full garden centre and tree nursery, u-pick strawberries and black currants, family adventure park, on-site restaurant and Olson’s High Country Bison: a value-added line of fruit-based food products the family business harvests and produces on site. Raised on the Open Range The Olson family has been raising bison in southern Alberta “We initially planned to harvest the black currant crop and for nearly 20 years. Their business, Olson’s High Country sell it as a commodity. But before we even had our first crop, Bison, markets gourmet meat products to the Calgary area. the world price dropped significantly and we ealizedr we were going to need to make value-added products and market them “Bison is raised locally and it’s historically at home in ourselves,” Judy says. southern Alberta, so we thought it would be appropriate to focus on selling it locally. Also, selling locally limits our Kayben Farms now sells 17 value-added products that make carbon footprint, and people relate better to bison as a local use of their own harvest, including jams and jellies, barbecue product,” says Tom Olson. sauce, dessert topping, juice and salad dressing.

THE PROFILE 2012 35 “Grown Right. Here” Program Keeps Stampede Food Local

The Calgary Stampede makes a conscious effort to support local producers year- round. “Locally grown is one of the hottest food trends out there right now,” says Derek Dale, Executive Chef with the Calgary Stampede. “But I think it’s more than a trend, I think it’s going to be here for a long time. It’s an idea that we at the Stampede really want to support.” To help increase the use of locally produced foods, the Calgary Stampede launched its “Grown Right. Here” program in 2008. As a result of the program, the organization now has PHOTO: Janet Kanters over 20 local suppliers providing food on a year-round basis. “They provide everything from meat and poultry to fresh vegetables, pulses, fruits, Successfully marketing the end product is an important part of Olson’s High Saskatoons (berries) and black currants,” Country Bison’s success, but Tom and Carolyn Olson’s goal has more to do with says Derek. conservation. Their purpose is to bring back the wild bison by helping people see the gourmet potential in the animal as a food source. Building relationships with the suppliers Bison are ecologically well-suited to the prairies, and their grazing style improves is also a priority for the Stampede, the landscape. They also improve health as a leaner protein source than many Derek says. “Creating and maintaining meat alternatives. relationships with local food producers “Bison has been around for thousands of years, but it is a relatively new product to is a big part of it. We visit the farms to consumers. It cooks differently from beef, but if it is improperly cooked, it affects the ensure the quality of the product and to quality of the final product,” omT explains. develop a good relationship with The Olsons have worked to develop strong relationships with local chefs, giving them the farmers.” lots of opportunity to experiment with a range of bison cuts to determine which While the quantity required sometimes cooking methods produce world-class dishes. makes it impossible, locally grown “Bison is a gourmet product. The chefs are willing to try new cooking methods to use food is used whenever possible by the lesser-known cuts in ways that create gourmet meals. After consumers have eaten the Calgary Stampede. It’s included in a flavourful, well-prepared bison product in a restaurant, they’re more likely to cook catering menus, in premium seating with it themselves,” says Tom. restaurants, at Mavericks Restaurant, The Olsons allow buffalo to roam free and feed on large areas of restored native and in some products available at the grassland. They also allow natural family groups to develop and stay together. “Our product is a bit of a niche market because we raise conservation bison. We try to keep concessions as well. them wild. We’re not focused on a mass market, we’re focused on a market that looks “We’re trying to follow the shift in for high-quality food, cares about sustainability and how the land and animals are consumer consciousness by starting to taken care of,” Tom says. buy local products. Plus, when guests To help chefs and retailers get a good handle on the Olson’s bison operation, they come to visit Calgary for the Stampede, are invited down to tour the Olson’s ranch regularly. “We view chefs and retail outlets it’s nice for them to get to try something as our partners. We need them and they need us. Without them, we couldn’t have local. Tasting locally produced food is developed this great conservation project that we’ve had underway for so long.” what people visiting from other countries Olson’s High Country Bison is continuing to grow. The operation currently has four want,” Derek says. ranches that cover 50,000 acres in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with a herd of about 4,000 bison. For more information, call 403.313.6200. 36 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE PHOTO: Janet Kanters

Calgary Urban Harvest Project: In its second season in 2011, the group had 300 registered Transforms Fruit into Community Building volunteers, about half of whom picked fruit from some of the 900 homes registered in the project. Overall, Adrian estimates, The potential for local food production doesn’t end at the group visited around 250 homes this season and picked Calgary’s city limits. In fact, the city is home to tens of around 5,500 pounds of fruit. thousands of fruit trees and shrubs that produce an abundant harvest. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t have time to Adrian’s goal is to grow the project at the community level, pick their fruit or know how to prepare food with it if they do. using community coordinators to manage it in their own neighbourhoods, and develop partnerships with organizations The Calgary Urban Harvest Project now provides a solution. that can volunteer to pick and make use of the harvest. “If you look closely at ecology you quickly see that there is no such thing as waste, so when I saw all this fruit being wasted, In 2012 the Calgary Urban Harvest Project will host a I became very interested,” says Adrian Buckley, permaculture Crabapple Festival to highlight the value of this under-used designer and director of the Calgary Urban Harvest Project. fruit. Crabapple trees are numerous in Calgary, but much of the harvest is never used. “It’s a very common type of food here “I’m seeing a lot of interest in urban agriculture,” he says. that is good for you and very tasty but harder to work with in the “The fruit we pick is natural and a solution for homeowners kitchen,” Adrian says. who are not using it. It’s an untapped energy source and it’s also a way to bring people together. It has a very strong The group also plans to build partnerships with the culinary community building function. People are getting very excited industry to develop additional end uses for the harvest, and about it.” engage with the community through attendance at festivals, farmers markets and community events. “We have enormous The Calgary Urban Harvest Project had its first organized potential to develop solutions to the problems that have picking season in 2010, when volunteers picked 6,000 developed as a result of urbanization and suburbanization, but pounds of fruit. Homeowners signed up to receive a call it takes creativity and a different way of looking at things to see from volunteer fruit pickers in the fall. If they invite those opportunities and act on them,” Adrian says. volunteers to pick their fruit, they receive a one-third share of the harvest; volunteers receive a one-third share; and Robin Galey is a writer specializing in agricultural production. the final one-third is donated to the community through She can be reached in Calgary at [email protected] farmer’s markets or other events.

THE PROFILE 2012 37 The Calgary Bull Sale:

PHOTO: Walt Browarny More than a Century Old Event An annual event. Really, a historic event. For 112 years, the Calgary Bull Sale has been an integral part of the Western Canadian livestock industry. By Shannon Haney

The similarities between the Calgary Bull Sale and the Calgary The continued growth of this sale saw the entry of additional Stampede are very evident in the strength of the volunteer breeds including Ayrshire, dairy breeds and Galloway. components of each organization and the dedication of In 1903, this event became known as the Livestock Convention the supporters, the community and the industry for the Week. Alberta and Saskatchewan became provinces in 1905 and continuation of these spectacular events. as such, the Territorial Purebred Cattle Breeders Association was renamed the Alberta Cattle Breeders Association (ACBA). Some History This annual event saw the addition of a ‘fat stock show’ which On September 14, 1900, the Territorial Purebred Cattle introduced other livestock to this week-long convention Breeders Association was established. The mandate of including swine, sheep, poultry egg as well as ‘carloads’ of this organization was to “promote the development and steers and heifers. This annual fat stock show was held every improvement of purebred cattle in Western Canada.” As year until its conclusion in 1974. The sale of 1906 was the last Calgary was a new and thriving community with convenient year that female purebred cattle were prepared and offered for access to the railway and ample accommodations for visitors, sale — often a very difficult undertaking after a harsh winter it was chosen as the host location for the inaugural purebred and calving season — and in 1907, this sale became and has cattle sale. Breeds including Shorthorn, Aberdeen Angus remained a bull sale exclusively. and Herefords were represented at this sale. The sale was a success and as such, the Bull Sale was born. In 1902, the As Calgary growth continued, so did the growth of the purebred sale was relocated to the exhibition grounds at Victoria Park herd sizes throughout the province. In 1915, the dairy breeds (commonly known as Stampede Park) and has since remained had developed significantly and it was decided to separate in this location. the dairy and beef breeds for sale purposes. An annual show specifically for dairy stock was created and this show is hosted in the fall of each year.

38 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE Show/Sale Rules of Livestock Convention Week – 1903 (very similar to those of current year’s show)

• All bulls must be halter broke, ringed and supplied with a good halter • The Association reserves the right to remove any animal considered to be of inferior quality, unhealthy or not representative of its breed • All animals must be registered purebreds, owned by their contributors for a minimum of six months prior to the sale • The bulls were to be shown in rotation of by breeds, and alphabetical rotation within breeds • Animals up to age six were eligible for the sale In the first decade of the Calgary Bull Sale, 60% were Shorthorn; 14% Hereford; 3% Angus; 23% Dairy and Galloway and the average price for the decade was $89.84. In 2012, the sale consists predominately of Hereford and Angus breeds with an average sale price of $5,727. PHOTO: Walt Browarny PHOTO: Walt Browarny

This annual event developed as much around the livestock show recording averaging daily gain was introduced in 1959. Prize and sale as it did around the personalities and socialization monies were discontinued in the late 1960s with ribbons and that occurred during the week-long event. The main hotels trophies presented to the winning entries. in Calgary including the Palliser, Alexandra, York and Grand The 1970s proved to be a decade of change for the purebred Union were host to the majority of travelling cattlemen. The cattle industry as pressures from consumers increased as did herdsmen and livestock caretakers for each of the entrants were the import of many continental breeds, creating challenges for often on 24-hour duty to ensure the safety of the livestock the Calgary Bull Sale with entry of these new breeds into the during the show schedule and often bunked in spare stalls annual event. The regulations at the time dictated that for new in the livestock pavilion to watch over their charges and be breeds a minimum of 50 bulls be entered into the sale and a available should any problematic situation arise. A pot-bellied minimum of 30 of these animals be sold — these were difficult stove was located in an area of the pavilion known as the ‘Boar’s restrictions for the new breeds. In 1978, the first Simmental Nest’ that would often be a gathering place for the herdsmen as bull was entered in the Calgary Bull Sale, and in 1980, the first it was a place of warmth throughout the evening. Charolais bull was sold in the sale. Polled Hereford breeders The economic downturn of the 1930s was evident in the hosted their own sale from 1976 to 1984 at which time they cattle industry, and strict culling and castration regulations entered the Calgary Bull Sale and discontinued their separate were introduced to maintain the selection quality of animals sale. In 1986, Limousin bulls entered the sale and in 1989, entered into the Calgary Bull Sale and the quality of animals Saler bulls joined the sale group. developing the herds throughout the industry. As the economy The 1970s also represented the commercial peak of the sale, in began to improve in the late 1930s, these restrictions were financial terms, with strong participation from international relaxed and animals were allowed to return to their home herds buyers seeking the best Canadian genetics. Through the 1970s if the animal’s defect was not considered a severity worthy of and 1980s, a large amount of bulls were sold to the U.S. slaughter. A minimum bid of $100 was also introduced into and Mexico, and Calgary Bull Sale was the place to be seen the sale regulations in 1943. by international cattle breeders. Since the 1950s, the show The growth of the Calgary Bull Sale encouraged the further has featured judges from Argentina, South Africa, Australia, separation of the bull sale and Livestock Convention Week. many U.S. states and most Canadian provinces. In 1974, the By the 1950s, the Calgary Bull Sale and Fat Stock Show were sale grossed over $1 million for the first time. That year saw a separate operating entity held annually in March. This also $1,082,245 grossed on 612 bulls, or an average of $1,768, added new rules for the sale including a reduced stock age of which is remarkable since at that time a new pickup truck sold three years or younger; and the practice of weighing and for about $2,800. In 1979, the sale grossed over $2.5 million for 602 bulls, for an average of $4,222 per bull.

THE PROFILE 2012 39 The Calgary Bull Sale had gained international recognition 112 Years Later and buyer confidence as providing the best stock that Canada The quality of the Calgary Bull Sale persists into the 21st offered, in addition to hosting strict selection criteria with Century and continues the progressive approach to beef stringent health regulations and veterinarian inspections. genetics in providing an exceptional venue for the cattle In 2000, Jim Hole, a 50-year breeder and consignor at the industry — nationally and internationally — to congregate Calgary Bull Sale was quoted: “All over the world, the Calgary annually and continue to grow the camaraderie within the Bull Sale is recognized as offering for sale the best beef cattle cattle and livestock industry. A Ranch Horse Sale has been genetics available. It has taken 100 years of breeders bringing introduced and is hosted simultaneously with the Bull Sale their best bulls to Calgary to build this reputation. The Alberta as a value-added component. An online viewing and bidding Cattle Breeders are fortunate in that there are a lot of good registration option has increased buying opportunity for many young progressive breeders who appreciate this and will not unable to attend in person, and an enhanced website with a allow the Calgary Sale to lose its reputation.” full gallery presenting the sale entrants continues to provide evaluation criteria for potential buyers. Another new sale Several families and personalities have and continue to be a feature includes an ultrasound of all bulls prior to sale with the dynamic part of the development and growth of this vibrant results being communicated prior to sale time. Showing the event. The stories the walls of the agricultural barns could tell growth of commercial Alberta herds, a heifer show component and the romances that have blossomed — the event has history was added this year (2012); offspring of previously sold bulls that lives far past the annual event. There is a family whose are offered, further validating the quality of animals that are involvement began in the sale of 1918 with Shorthorn cattle hosted at the Calgary Bull Sale. and generations of this family continue to be a very essential part of this event, including holding significant committee and As is true with any event of this grandeur, the Calgary Bull volunteer positions — this same sentiment is echoed in many Sale has continued success due to the values, goals and families who continue to be cornerstones of this sale. business practices that have defined the cattlemen of this industry. The past, present and future directors of this Other notable folks include Don “Suds” Sutherland — cattle organization have maintained and mandated the continuance fitter and hoof trimmer — who at one time worked on nearly of improving the purebred industry and enhancing cattle all the bulls in the sale; he was booked from Christmas genetics. This annual event continues to be one of the each year until the sale was complete and he comments that social events of the year in this industry, and the quest although it was an extremely busy time, he “loved every minute for continued improvement in the livestock and business of it — especially the camaraderie among the people.” Walt practices have allowed the longevity and exceptional success Brownary was the official photographer for the Calgary Bull of this 112-year-old event and the long-standing relationship Sale from 1969 until his recent passing. There is rarely a this event continues with the Calgary Stampede. show picture to be found without the stamp of Walt’s name in the bottom corner. Don Stewart, an inductee into the Shannon Haney has been volunteering with the Calgary Alberta Agricultural Hall of Fame, was the General Manager of Stampede for over 10 years, and promises all visitors it will Agricultural Portfolio for the Calgary Stampede, the individual be “an experience of their lifetime!” This sentiment has been responsible for the Calgary Bull Sale and an integral part of the true for every person she has had opportunity to host. Please development of the Calgary Bull Sale for many years. contact Shannon at [email protected]

The Calgary Stampede International Agriculture Committee exists TO SHARE AN ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE WITH OUR INTERNATIONAL GUESTS AND STAMPEDE FAMILY. The Calgary Stampede International Agriculture committee thanks the following partners whose support is essential for our program

40 INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE

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Choisissez les produits canadiens! • Pour nos aliments de haute qualité • Pour nos gens dévoués • Pour notre souci de la salubrité des aliments et de l’innovation

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