Community Safety at the Daniels County Fair

Published: 2022
By Inga Hawbaker

Historically, the Daniels County 4-H Livestock Show has had an open show area for the 4-H members to exhibit their livestock, meaning that no barrier has existed between 4-H members, their livestock, and the spectators. Having some incidences occur in the past few years, 4-H members and volunteers were motivated to acquire livestock panels for the show area to create a safer environment. The project also proposed the addition of safety and etiquette signs to be hung in the 4-H barns and on gates. The Daniels County 4-H Livestock Committee chose to assist 4-H members in bringing the project to fruition. Employing information provided by senior 4-H members, funds were applied for and received to assist with project costs through the Montana Department of Agriculture’s “Rural Community Development Grant” and the Montana 4-H Foundation’s “People Partner Grant.” The 2022 Daniels County Fair marked the inaugural use of the panels and signage, which were set up and installed by senior 4-H members. The panels were utilized at both the livestock show and 4-H sale, providing peace of mind for 4-H families. The feedback after the fair was overwhelmingly positive regarding the project, with the following comments provided by volunteers and community members: • “This worked so well. I know my kids felt better leading their steers in there (show ring) this year.” • “The panels were so nice – everyone felt so much safer. We’ve been needing this for years!” • “I liked knowing that elderly people were safe – protected, in case an animal blows up or gets away.” • “They were dual-purpose – using them at the 4-H Sale helped keep the sale crowd around the bleachers.” While 4-H members are the primary livestock exhibitors at the fair, the Daniels County Fair Board also sponsors open livestock classes on behalf of the county. Therefore, creating a safer environment is beneficial beyond 4-H, extending to other community entities.