By MATT PIKE
Things at the new Buchanan County Fairgrounds have been in full swing after the opening of the indoor arena just over two weeks ago.
Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson says while there are still some things they would like to do around the indoor arena, it is operational and has already hosted indoor events over the last two weekends.
"The first weekend was horses, the FFA, 4H, they were getting ready it was a clinic run by an individual, and they were giving instruction for the kids that were going to the state fair," Nelson says on the KFEQmunnity show. "This last weekend, it was a three-day deal, it was Barn and Beyond, and the big thing at the end was they had a premium sale."
Nelson says he heard nothing but positive comments from attendees of both events on the fairgrounds and the event itself, with 4H and FFA members having the opportunity to showcase their animals and exhibits.
Students around the area have never had a dedicated area like this in Buchanan County to showcase their animals, and Nelson says they received thank you notes from some that participated in the event voicing gratitude.
"One was shared that this was their favorite event of all time and she had been showing for four years, and this is her all-time favorite, thanked us," Nelson explains. "And the fact that, at least Buchanan County 4H, they have a home now, they're not like nomads they have to go here, go there to different counties to have their own shows, but the fact that they have a home and how nice it is."
Events are happening often at the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, and while both buildings are now operational, Nelson says there are some things still to be done.
"We have a wash rack I'm pretty sure you could put two elephants on, it's that big and that strong, so we want to enclose that, and I think there's a thought in putting a separate hog washing pin," Nelson says. "There's also a bathroom facility just south and west of the arena we're putting and an area for concession and ticket sales, and maybe some medical supplies, and then also in the plans is, I call it an umbrella building, a pole barn no sides, on the east side of the building so animals can stay outside versus outside if you wanted to do that,"
Nelson says they also continue to figure out parking on the east side of the indoor arena as well. There are also continued 4H plans along with the Missouri Extension.
To learn more about what's going on at the Buchanan County Fairgrounds, you can visit their Facebook page.
Interview
You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.