Sioux Empire Fair waives livestock competition fees

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – The Sioux Empire Fair is waiving entry fees for its livestock competition for the first time this summer as South Dakota farmers and ranchers deal with tariffs on foreign agriculture markets and spring flooding.

Traditionally, the entry fees have been $10 to $25 depending on the class or species of animal being shown.

It’s the 80th anniversary for the fair which starts this weekend. Hundreds will showcase their cows, lambs, goats and pigs they’ve been raising in hopes of taking home some prize money. Many show more than one animal, so fair officials say the fees can add up quickly.

Fair director Scott Wick says the fee waiver will be extended in future years.

AP-WF-08-02-19 1354GMT