News Flash

Thanks to generous community support, the former Open Class Horse Barn has been transformed into a versatile new space now called the “Critter Collective.” This dedicated overflow area ensures that no youth exhibitors are turned away due to space limitations—a crucial step as participation in 4-H, FFA, and Grange livestock programs continues to rise alongside the fair’s popularity.

“People are loving our fair, and that’s incredibly exciting,” said Carolyn Morley, Fair Manager. “But with that growth comes the responsibility to make sure every kid who wants to be part of our agricultural programs has a place to showcase their hard work. That’s the heart of our fair.”

The Critter Collective will expand exhibition opportunities while helping the fair stay true to its core mission: supporting agricultural education and inspiring the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and animal stewards.

The renovation was made possible through a combination of monetary donations and in-kind contributions. Fair Board members and dedicated volunteers took the lead on demolition and preparation work, while raised funds covered essential upgrades, including the installation of a brand-new concrete slab.

A special thank you goes to Livestock Chair and Fair Board member Ann Whitehall, whose leadership and commitment to community outreach and fundraising were instrumental in bringing this project to life.

While the Open Class Horse Barn has been repurposed, horse exhibitors will still enjoy a strong presence at the fair. Open Class Horses will now be housed in the Youth 4-H/Grange/FFA Horse Building, where there’s sufficient space thanks to lower participation in that class.

“We’re blessed to have such a supportive community,” shared a Fair Board member. “This project shows what we can achieve when we work together to invest in our youth and their future.”

Thank You to Our Supporters

The Douglas County Fairgrounds extends heartfelt thanks to the following donors whose generosity made the Critter Collective possible:

• Ag West – $4,000

• Cenex Harvest States – $5,000

• Highline Grain Growers – $5,000

• Memorial donations in honor of Gary Daling ($100), Arvene Rinker ($100), and Merle Armstrong ($100)

• NCW Community Foundation – $2,000

• Badger Mountain Lodge #57 F&AM – $5,000

• Tom Ripley, Pennington Construction, and Charles Moniz for their in-kind donations and support

This year’s NCW Fair theme is “The Greatest Little Fair,” running from August 21–25.

For details about the fair, upcoming events, or ways to support future projects, visit Douglas County Fair's Facebook here, or visit their website.