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Black Hills Stock Show reports record sales, high volunteer turnout and five-year capital plan work
Summary
Ron Jeffries, general manager of Central States Fair and the Black Hills Stock Show, told commissioners March 4 the event posted record revenue and strong livestock sales, credited roughly 300 volunteers, and said a five-year capital plan is underway.
Central States Fair Inc. General Manager Ron Jeffries updated the Pennington County Board of Commissioners March 4 on the 2025 Black Hills Stock Show, reporting record agricultural sales, higher attendance at many events and strong volunteer support.
Highlights: Jeffries said the Farm Credit Services horse sale exceeded $2 million in gross sales and that beef and youth livestock classes set turnout records. He also reported record revenue for the event even as expenses rose, and said the overall result will be ahead of 2024 but below the planned budget total.
Volunteer role and capacity: Jeffries described a volunteer force of about 300 people who staff shows and operations; he noted the organization runs a lean paid staff of roughly eight full-time employees for major events and relies heavily on board members, interns and volunteers to run shows.
Economic and community value: Commissioners praised the event—s economic impact on the region and credited volunteers and staff for the production. Jeffries said the fair board is developing a five-year capital plan that he expects to deliver to the county in coming months.
No formal action was required. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the fair—s role in supporting agriculture, youth programming and local tourism.
