Manitoba’s agricultural societies will receive more than $94,000 to upgrade fairgrounds and make other infrastructure improvements, ensuring these spaces remain safe and enjoyable for participants and visitors. This announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler.
“Fairs, rodeos and other special events bring communities together, create economic opportunities and help promote agriculture and rural Manitoba,” said Eichler. “Manitoba’s agricultural societies help put our best foot forward when hosting events and welcoming visitors, so we are pleased to partner with them on these important infrastructure projects.”
Agricultural societies can apply for annual infrastructure grants to help maintain and upgrade buildings and exhibition grounds. This year’s projects include barn and grandstand upgrades, landscaping, new signage, ball diamond and track improvements, and building renovations.
“An agricultural society’s facilities are not just for the organization, but are a gathering place for the community they serve,” said Marlene Baskerville, executive director, Manitoba Association of Agricultural Societies (MAAS). “The dollars invested back into these facilities will benefit each community as a whole.”
There are 59 agricultural societies throughout Manitoba with 11,000 members.
A complete list of projects that receiving grants in 2016-17 can be found online.
