LUMBERTON — The Robeson County Regional Agricultural Fair recently was recognized by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services during the North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fair State Conference.
Fair President Allen Faircloth received a certificate from NCDA’s David Smith for the fair’s efforts to promote agricultural awareness in North Carolina.
The award is presented based on the presentation and quality of exhibits depicting crops, livestock, clothing, and arts and crafts for enjoyment by rural and urban residents. The award also is based on the involvement of youth, community activities and the presentation and expansion of skills and crafts native to North Carolina.
“We work hard to encourage folks to display their talents at the fair whether it is cooking, growing plants, crafting, or something else. We are blessed to have so many talented folks in this county that are willing to take part in our home exhibit competitions,” Faircloth said.
The fair offers more than $35,000 in premiums each year to people who are willing to enter home exhibits, displays and livestock at the fair.
“This year was challenging with Hurricane Florence forcing us to open two days late,” Faircloth said. “Although our overall exhibit numbers were down, the quality was spectacular. We are very honored to receive this award and are happy to share it with our talented board and exhibitors who made it happen.”
Also at the conference Faircloth was elected to serve as vice president of the North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fair State Conference. This board represents all agricultural fairs in the state, and offers training, awards and advocates for agricultural fairs. Currently there are 39 agricultural fairs in North Carolina.
