Frederick Waldemar Walsh
Frederick Waldemar Walsh, M.B.D., B.S.A., L.L.D. (honoris causa) had that unique ability to generate enthusiasm around a conference table, in a meeting, with his colleagues and staff; to see beyond self interests and clearly define objectives that fit future development.
As an agriculturist his interests involved the total community from 4-H clubs, local shipping clubs, marketing organizations to a Canadian involvement in the Canadian Feed Grains Board. As a civil servant he played a significant role in the development of the Fishermen’s Loan Board, the Marshland Reclamation Act, acceptance of grading standards, railgrade for hogs, cattle and lambs, and the Natural Products Marketing Act of 1946 which with minor revisions is one of the major pieces of Agricultural Legislation in Canada.
His understanding of markets and the marketplace, his ability to set futuristic objectives, his understanding of organization, the need of sound legislation under which he developed a farmer controlled structure that led to the stability in the marketplace of dairy products, apples, wool and hogs, and the marketing of fish and forest products are all designed to enhance and improve the quality of life and the financial base of the rural commuinity.
He is recognized provincially and nationally. He’s dynamic, forceful, charismatic, his desire to improve the financial position of the rural community, his dedication to creating a future with a high standard of living for the rural resident has been forceful, positive and profitable to the primary producers of Atlantic Canada.
Waldo’s unforgettable character allowed no room for the uncommitted. He offered leadership to positive ideas, resisted the negative and disturbed the uncommitted to an awareness of their situation. His outstanding accomplishments are all recognized by his election to the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame.