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Rio Blanco Fair Board reports record entries and $507,000 youth livestock sale; commissioners approve 2026 fair dates
Summary
Fair Board reported growth in indoor exhibits and a strong junior livestock sale totaling about $507,000; commissioners approved the proposed July 2026 fair schedule and discussed sponsorship/budget handling.
The Rio Blanco County Fair Board reported higher overall exhibitor participation and a stronger junior livestock sale at a Sept. 23 work session, and commissioners approved proposed dates for the 2026 fair.
Key takeaways from the Fair Board debrief - Participation and entries: Fair Board president Bridal Mergeland said exhibitors checked in 356 entrants (up from 331) and total indoor/outdoor entries rose to 2,022 (up from 1,691), driven by increased quilting and school art participation. - Livestock sale results: The junior livestock sale raised a total gross of approximately $421,006.50 with add-on pledges of about $85,005.32, producing a combined total of roughly $507,000 for youth sellers. The board noted sale efficiency improvements and positive buyer feedback about the pace and organization of the sale. - Sponsorships and costs: Sponsorship receipts and awards were up compared with 2024 ($28,000 this year vs. $21,900 in 2024). The board emphasized that sponsorships included both cash and significant in-kind donations such as Tractor Supply supplying shavings for exhibits. - Premiums and ribbons: Indoor premiums and ribbons rose modestly due to the increased number of entries; the board adjusted ribbon counts and stopped giving lower-place ribbons in some categories to control costs.
Board actions and next year’s schedule - Commissioners approved proposed 2026 fair dates: shooting sports July 16–18; horse show and other competitions in the intervening week; main fair week July 27–Aug. 1, 2026. - Budget administration: Commissioners and Fair Board discussed moving some operating funding to a county-controlled account or a formal grant arrangement so the Fair Board can access funds for early-season purchases (e.g., buckles, banners) and reconcile sponsor income. The board asked the Fair Board leadership and county finance staff to draft documented controls and a budget plan to ensure timely vendor payments while maintaining oversight.
Why it matters: The fair supports 4‑H, school and community arts and provides a major fundraising and youth development event tied to the county’s agricultural economy. The rise in entries and sale totals affects county fundraising and sponsor engagement planning for 2026.
Ending Commissioners thanked the Fair Board volunteers and county staff for the event and asked staff to work with the Fair Board on the requested financial controls and the 2026 budget plan so that vendor payments and early purchases can be handled smoothly next year.
