It's always a special event when people are recognized for their contribution and this week, four more deserving names were added to the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame. The hall inducted Hugh Drake, Dr. Don Flaten, Dr. Allan Preston, and Fred Tait Wednesday for their contributions and accomplishments toward Manitoba’s agriculture industry. These change-makers were recognized in an induction ceremony at Red River Exhibition Park.
The 2024 Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Mr. Hugh Drake (Elkhorn, MB), served on the Elkhorn Board of Manitoba Pool Elevators (MPE) for 28 years and helped Manitobans navigate the ever-changing landscape of agri-business during the ‘90’s and early 2000’s. He selflessly dedicated his life to service on various boards within the agriculture industry in Manitoba to ensure that Manitoba and western Canadian non-profit agricultural organizations, coops and companies were successful. In doing so, he kept agriculture in Manitoba a cornerstone of our economy and our small rural communities.
Dr. Don Flaten (Winnipeg, MB), is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Soil Science at the University of Manitoba where he retired in 2021 from his position as Professor in Nutrient Management and Crop Nutrition. Dr. Flaten has led a productive and impactful field research program with short and long-term contributions to soil fertility and crop nutrition in Manitoba since 1988. Dr. Flaten continues to publish research papers and maintains a considerable farm, industry, government, and media extension program as well as being a consultant to commodity associations and policymakers.
Dr. Allan Preston (Hamiota, MB), has spent his career advancing agriculture, imparting his infectious love for the industry, and doing his utmost to make rural Manitoba and Canada a stronger and more vibrant place. He was the president of the Canadian Simmental Association and active on the Beef Science Cluster Advisory Body and the Westman Opportunities Leadership Group. He was also the Chief Veterinary Officer before being appointed as Assistant Deputy Minister at Manitoba Agriculture and Food, where he chaired the Manitoba Agriculture Research and Innovation Committee.
Mr. Fred Tait (Rosendale, MB), Fred joined the National Farmers Union in 1983 and has held various positions including being a Manitoba Coordinator and the National Vice President. He has always worked to give a voice to agricultural producers and worked strenuously to protect farmer and public interest in Canada's seed regulations. Fred advocated for issues of conservation and respectful stewardship of the land. He has always promoted the use of both agricultural and non-agricultural land as resources that can be used but not exploited. Fred has contributed immeasurably to important discussions about the future of agriculture and how to ensure a healthy, sustainable life for farmers and all rural residents.
With this induction ceremony, the Manitoba Agriculture Hall of Fame is continuing the tradition of formally and publicly recognizing inspiring individuals who, during their residence in Manitoba, have made an outstanding contribution to the improvement of agriculture and the betterment of rural living in the province.
Full biographies of all inductees can be found here.