The North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association (NTFFRA) is moving forward with plans to build a multipurpose Agriplex building on their Dunn Lake Road property in Barriere. Last week a committee of the NTFFRA, and a number of area stakeholders and volunteers, joined together for an informal meeting to launch the Agriplex Project Committee and take the first steps towards construction.
Members of the NTFFRA note that the mission of the Association, after 62 successful years, remains the same; “To encourage, develop and promote the advancement of agriculture and farm living in the North Thompson River Valley, with special reference to the fostering of Livestock, Crops, Orchard Crops, Poultry, Husbandries, Industrial, Commercial, Education, Mechanical and Household Arts, and Rural and Urban young people’s organizations.”
The group says the time is right to expand the current NTFFR facility by erecting a 20,000 square foot multi purpose building that will not only serve as a showcase for agricultural related events, but will also help to stimulate the local economy and will benefit the community and North Thompson Valley as a whole.
The property where the fairgrounds are situated in Barriere is owned free and clear by the NTFFRA; they remain debt free – and are quick to say they plan to stay that way. Therefore, the funds required to construct the planned Agriplex, $350,000, will be raised by fundraisers, sponsorships, grants, and in-kind donations.
The group says they have already accumulated a number of sponsorships and in-kind donations earmarked for the project. Most importantly the NTFFRA wants to thank the Yellowhead 4H Club members for unanimously voting to donate a portion of their annual flower basket fundraiser towards the construction of the building.
“The North Thompson Fall Fair was started to give our 4H youth a place to showcase their animals,” said NTFFRA president Donna Kibble, “We are so appreciative that today’s 4H are still such a strong part of our fair and Association, and we look forward to their continuance into the future.”
The NTFFRA Agriplex Project Committee would like to extend to everyone their invitation to join with them in creating this Agriplex. In creating a facility where youth and families can come together in 4H and livestock competitions, participate in related events, or enjoy a trade show, auction, concert or educational or interesting venue that this building will be able to accommodate.
For more information call Donna Kibble at 250-672-5672 or Karl Rainer at 250-672-9407.