The Manitoba government will provide $94,500 in infrastructure improvement grants to agricultural societies which will be used for fairground upgrades and other priority projects across the province. This announcement was made by Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn.
“Manitoba’s agricultural fairs, rodeos and other special events connect our communities and give us an opportunity to talk about farming and food with our neighbours,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “This grant program helps agricultural societies ensure venues are welcoming, comfortable and ready to greet visitors from near and far.”
All of Manitoba’s 59 agricultural societies are able to apply for funding under this program, the minister said, adding infrastructure improvement grants help maintain and upgrade buildings and exhibition grounds. This year’s grants support a wide variety of projects including show rings, electrical system upgrades, livestock enclosure enhancements, and repairs or enhancements to grandstands and washrooms.
“As agricultural societies in Manitoba own and operate over $100 million worth of community facilities, infrastructure upgrades are an ongoing expense,” said Marlene Baskerville, executive director, Manitoba Association of Agricultural Societies (MAAS). “MAAS is very appreciative of the infrastructure grant program assistance.”
Over the last three years, the Manitoba government has invested more than $280,000 in 150 agricultural society projects across the province.
