Saline County Fairgrounds launches $300k fundraising campaign after storm damage

The Saline County Fair Association announces the launch of a $300,000 restoration campaign after a severe winter storm in January caused extensive damage to the Saline County Fairgrounds, threatening key events including the annual fair and rodeo. Read more below.

Association leaders say the storm destroyed or heavily damaged multiple core facilities, including the rodeo arena cover, fencing, announcer’s stand, bleachers, and livestock barns used for hogs, goats and sheep.

The damage also impacted other structures across the property and eliminated an estimated 95% of the fairgrounds’ primary revenue sources. The storm that hit Arkansas in late January caused widespread structural failures across the state, including collapses due to heavy snow and ice accumulation.

“These losses hit the heart of what we do,” said Dustin Parsons, president of the Saline County Fair Association. “The fairgrounds are where our community gathers, but more importantly, they are where our 4-H students get to step into the ring and show the results of months of hard work.”

The association is now working to rebuild in time for this year’s events, with priorities including reconstructing livestock barns, reopening the arena as an open-air facility, restoring seating, and installing lighting and a new arena floor. Plans also include long-term improvements such as expanded seating, improved accessibility, and upgraded viewing areas.

Saline County Judge Matt Brumley said the ice storm does not qualify for FEMA assistance, leaving local and state resources as the primary path to recovery. However, the damage did meet Arkansas’ disaster threshold, which could allow for approximately 35% reimbursement of eligible costs beyond insurance coverage. Local officials previously noted that documenting structural damage is a key step in qualifying for any potential state assistance following the storm.

The fairgrounds are owned by Saline County and operated by the Fair Association, and both entities are working together on recovery efforts. Community members, businesses and sponsors are being asked to contribute to the rebuilding campaign.

“Our goal is simple,” Parsons said. “We want to make sure our kids can show their animals, our families can come to the fair, and our community can gather for a full fair and rodeo. With the community’s help, we’ll make that happen.”

Anyone can make a donation online, by mail, or by contacting the association directly:

Donations and sponsorships can be made: