FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, August 1, 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: Candi Briley, (605) 353-7340

Wilbur-Ellis Contribution to The SHED Announced

HURON, S.D. – The South Dakota State Fair Foundation is excited to announce Wilbur-Ellis has pledged $100,000 to the ‘Raise The SHED’ Fundraising Campaign. The SHED will be the new home for Open Class Sheep at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in Huron and serve as a multi-purpose facility, including a show arena and educational center. The indoor educational center will provide a place for interactive learning about the sheep industry, opportunities in agriculture, and our state’s rich agricultural history.

“We’re excited about the new sheep facility and are looking forward to seeing it in use in the near future. This addition to the State Fair will give young people the opportunity to learn many new skills and practice values that will serve them well through life,” said Matt Richmond, Wilbur-Ellis District Sales Manager. “With this commitment, as well as upcoming expansions of our business in the state, Wilbur-Ellis is investing in South Dakota for the long term.”

Phil Gilbert, Wilbur-Ellis District Operations Manager, added: “The company has supported South Dakota farmers for two decades. With this three-year funding commitment to the State Fair, we’re also benefitting people in all walks of life throughout the state.”

The “Raise The SHED” campaign includes several donor opportunities for all donation levels, including show arena naming rights and donor wall sponsorships. The fundraising goal is $3 million. The total project cost is approximately $8 million. For more information on how to donate visit: www.sdstatefairfoundation.com.

The former Open Class Sheep Barn has been demolished, and project planning and design for The SHED is underway. A groundbreaking ceremony is expected to be held during the 2024 State Fair.

For additional information about the project or questions about the ‘Raise The SHED’ campaign, please contact Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fairgrounds Manager at 605-353-7340 or peggy.besch@state.sd.us. You can also contact Fundraising Campaign Chairman Larry Tidemann at 605-690-8353. A complete list of fundraising committee members and campaign information can be found at www.sdstatefairfoundation.com.

About the Wilbur-Ellis Companies

Founded in 1921, the Wilbur-Ellis companies are leading marketers, distributors and manufacturers of agricultural products and animal nutrients. By developing strong relationships, making strategic market investments, and capitalizing on new opportunities, the Wilbur-Ellis companies have continued to grow the business with sales of over $3.5 billion. For more information, please visit www.wilburellis.com.

Wilbur-Ellis Agribusiness, with annual sales revenue of $2.7 billion, has over 147 branch locations throughout the U.S.

For media inquiries for Wilbur-Ellis, please contact Jeanne Forbis at jforbis@wilburellis.com.

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