Please respect the Fairgrounds

Rural communities have a rich history of agriculture celebration and we don’t have to look any further than our own Wheat Land Communities’ Fair. While a local fair dates back considerably in time, the current site of the fair began in 1981. It has been built upon since, with donated funds, income generated from ag production, and volunteer labor.

My family has had the opportunity to visit fairgrounds throughout the Northwest and I can tell you this for certain; for its size we have one of the most functional, accessible and attractive grounds out there. And it is all maintained without a dime of government funding or paid labor! According to the Washington State Fair Commission, this is very uncommon and all are to be commended.

Volunteers spend countless hours mowing, baling, weeding, watering, and more and then turn around to donate their own funds to support Wampum, sponsor awards, and yes, purchase admittance to the annual fair.

I am grateful for the efforts of these volunteers who receive nothing more than a “thank you.” They make our fair possible and our grounds something all the community should be proud of.

I absolutely love to see community events held on the grounds: livestock shows, horse clinics, Bible School, wedding receptions, etc. It is sometimes difficult when no officials are on site, but all are welcome with proper contracts and event insurance in place. No non-profit organization would be able to withstand a liability issue without these necessary channels in place.

The same can be said for the excessive traffic that has been observed, mostly with dogs on the loose. For the same reasons the City of Ritzville does not allow dogs at the city park, the fair cannot be expected turn a blind eye to potential liability concerns with this activity.

Additionally, excessive traffic is causing damage to hay ground that is intended for baling and sold to generate income for the fair. This is not only inconsiderate; it is also against the law.

Destruction of an ag crop in the State of Washington nets a fine of three times the crops value. Let’s not be forced to go down that road. Please respect the industry (and neighbors, for that matter) that is the lifeblood of our community.

Again, please keep in mind that the fairgrounds are private property and we need your cooperation. Our community and volunteers have so much invested so that all can continue to enjoy. I grew up on those grounds and I hope my kids can say the same thing.

See you Labor Day Weekend. Or before if you want to join our group of volunteers.

Respectfully submitted,

Lori Williams, Ritzville

With support of the WLCF Board of Directors