Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture have announced the distribution of more than $1.4 million in funding to assist 80 local fairs and livestock shows across the state. The funding comes through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Fair Funding Program and will support operational costs, facility improvements, and livestock-related expenses.
“Agriculture isn’t just Arkansas’ largest industry – it’s part of our way of life,” said Governor Sanders. “The Fair Funding program helps showcase our farmers and ranchers and gets the next generation excited about agriculture – while also being a great way for small town Arkansas to come together and have fun.”
Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward emphasized the broader impact of the funding, saying, “We’re proud to work with fairs and livestock shows throughout the state to highlight the importance of our state’s largest industry and provide opportunities for the next generation to participate in the industry that provides the food, fiber, fuel, and shelter that is critical to the daily lives of every Arkansan.”
Major Fairs and Local Communities Benefit
Among the recipients, notable allocations include $84,000 to the Arkansas State Fair, $48,000 to the Arkansas Youth Expo, and $54,000 each to major district fairs such as the Arkansas-Oklahoma Fair, Four States Fair, Northeast District Fair, and several others. Smaller community fairs across the state, from the Ashley County Fair Association to the Yell County Free Fair Inc, received funding amounts ranging from around $11,000 to nearly $20,000, depending on needs and size.
This funding supports not just event operations but also essential agricultural work, including livestock care and youth agricultural programs. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in maintaining animal health at these events. In the past year alone, livestock inspectors dedicated over 1,600 hours at fairs and inspected more than 1,800 cattle, 1,400 hogs, 2,200 goats, 1,000 sheep, 7,000 poultry, 1,700 rabbits, and 470 equine.
Preserving Arkansas’ Agricultural Heritage
The Fair Funding Program was created to preserve and promote Arkansas’ agricultural heritage and invest in the future of the state’s farming and livestock industries. To ensure accountability, funding recipients must maintain detailed financial records and submit an annual report to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and Arkansas Legislative Audit.
The importance of these events goes far beyond agriculture; they bring together rural communities, offer entertainment, and create educational opportunities for young people interested in farming and ranching. Governor Sanders praised the program for not only supporting the state’s largest industry but also fostering community spirit and celebrating Arkansas traditions.
For more information on the Fair Funding Program and how it supports Arkansas’ fairs and agricultural events, visit agriculture.arkansas.gov.
