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Graham, James Harold - 2000 Hall of Fame Inductee | |
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 | Several years of hail damage back in the 50s persuaded Jim Graham to switch from grain to cattle production. It was a pivotal decision for both Jim and Alberta's burgeoning beef industry. The experience he gained as a producer and feeder combined with passion and political know-how helped make Canada a world-wide leader and model for excellence in cattle production. Jim became chair of the Alberta Cattle Commission and the Beef Export Federation, as well as President of the Canadian Cattlemen's Association. He is well-remembered for his 1986 stand against importing heavily subsidized European beef. When asked how much of the beef Canada would accept, he responded with, "Not one damn pound!" His decision saved the Canadian industry an estimated $500 million over 10 years. By leading the industry out of the National Tripartite Stabilization Program two years ahead of schedule and supporting NAFTA, he set a strong example at GATT talks. Under his direction, the Canada Beef Export Federation evolved and expanded into Mexico and the Pacific Rim. Despite opposition from other member countries, Jim invited Mexico to join the Five Nations Beef Conference. While devoting 200 days a year to promoting the cattle industry, Jim also oversaw a successful business, South Slope Feeders Ltd.
Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame main page |
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For more information about the content of this document, contact Susan Lacombe.
This information published to the web on October 19, 2001.
Last Reviewed/Revised on December 4, 2018.
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