Eugene Griffin Legge
Since he was a teenager,
agriculture has been a major part of Eugene Legge’s life. He started
working as a summer student with Newfoundland and Labrador Farm Products
in 1966 and worked full time with his father upon his high school
graduation in 1969. He established his own farm in 1973. It was in
1985 after purchasing a second quota that he created ChrisDarMar Farms.
He now shares this successful chicken operation with his youngest son
Darryl, producing over 800,000 birds a year.
In addition to having run a successful business, Eugene has always participated in organizations to enhance the future of agriculture. He has a passion for all aspects of agriculture. He has served in many roles over the years including that of President and Past President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture, Vice Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Chicken Marketing Board as well as Director and Alternate for Chicken Farmers of Canada. He also served on many committees at the national level including representing the Chicken Farmers of Canada at the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, Chair of the Soil Conservation Council of Canada, Chair of the Canadian On-Farm Food Safety System and President and Treasurer of the East Coast Contract Growers Association. Eugene represented the Canadian Federation of Agriculture on the Animal Welfare Committee, was Chair of the Agri -Adapt Council, Chair of Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Program, Chair of Atlantic Farm Council and Chair of Eastern Soil and Water Conservation Center.
His contribution to agriculture in Newfoundland and Labrador over the years has been rewarded by witnessing the growth of the industry into the viable, renewable resource that it has become. He has volunteered his time and experience to mentor the future leaders in agriculture with the Young Farmers organization and has contributed to trade negotiations, agricultural research, diversification, technology enhancement, food safety, animal welfare, education and promotion of agriculture. He has also promoted bio-security, soil and water conservation, supply management, land issues and disease management. In summary, Eugene has provided leadership in government relations, liaison among farmers and commodity organizations and always advanced agriculture.
Despite his busy schedule, Eugene has always had time for involvement in his community. He has served for over 32 years with the Sea Cadets as CEO, Supply Officer and Training Officer and he still plays an active role with this group. Eugene is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 64 and has served in several positions such as treasurer, secretary and vice president. He has also been a member of the Harbour Main Town Council.
Nominated by the East Coast Broiler’s Association for his devotion and dedication to the agricultural industry of Newfoundland and Labrador, Eugene Griffin Legge is indeed a deserving inductee into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame.