Set this past May by Blaine County 4-H, the goal to improve the area near the Show and Sale Arena on the Blaine County Fairgrounds is well on its way to being met. On July 26, a work crew unrolled sod and celebrated the planting of grass in time for the 2022 Blaine County Fair.

Trent Noel, 4-H/Family Consumer Science Extension Agent with MSU Blaine County, reported that the primary work force was comprised of parents and members from the North Chinook Boosters 4-H Club. The club had applied for and was awarded a $500 4-H People Partner Grant for the project. One FFA member and three additional volunteers without 4-H or FFA affiliation also contributed time to the project's progress.

Although the load of sod ordered didn't quite "carpet" the available space, the open spots will be addressed after the fair. "We were short about two pallets, so we'll decide later what to do about those gaps," Noel said.

Although the original plan was to seed the arena, the Envelope Fundraiser-along with other grants and donations-generated sufficient funds to secure sod. Triangle Turf Farms, which is based in Great Falls, delivered the sod on Tuesday, July 26. Prior to the turf's arrival, John Pike Construction prepared the approximately 60 by 80 foot space by spreading four-five inches of top soil to serve as a growing surface.

To encourage growth of a root base for the Kentucky bluegrass, the area will be heavily watered for a week. "Once the grass is established, we will groom it in time for the fair," Noel explained. "All shows, except small animal and beef, will take place in this area, which will also serve as the sale ring for the Livestock Sale," he added.

According to Noel, Pepsi Cola will be bringing in some portable shades, and others will be rented in order to provide relief from the sun for this year. Eventually, the plan is to construct some kind of permanent shade structures. Although bleachers will be set-up for the various animal shows and for the livestock sale, people are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs if they choose.

For anyone unable to attend the shows in person, these performances will be filmed and then posted to the Blaine County 4-H Facebook Page using Facebook Live.