Bud Olson grew up on a farm in Iddesleigh, Alta. and became president of Farmer’s Stockmen’s Supplies prior to handling the agriculture portfolio in Pierre Trudeau’s cabinet from 1968 to 1972.
During his time as ag minister, Olson oversaw the early steps toward supply management, including enabling legislation for marketing boards for turkey and chicken.
He introduced the Lower Inventories for Tomorrow (LIFT) program to reduce wheat production and grain surpluses, and introduced the Small Farms Development Program, which helped struggling producers and offered options for growers wanting to leave the industry.