Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival’s Junior Livestock Auction Raises Over $330,000 for Local Youth Programs
Livestock Auction
INDIO – The annual Junior Livestock Auction at the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival presented by Fantasy Springs Resort Casino was a resounding success, raising an impressive $330,822 on Feb, 22. This marks a 15% increase from last year’s total of $287,255, demonstrating the community’s growing investment in the future of local agriculture.
Auction proceeds go directly to the students who raised animals and their supporting 4-H and FFA programs, providing financial support that helps young exhibitors continue their agricultural projects, invest in future endeavors, and save for higher education.
Participating Clubs & Chapters:
- 4-H Clubs: Alvord Aggies 4-H, Desert Compadres 4-H, Desert Sandblasters 4-H, Elsinore Valley 4-H, Epic 4-H, High Country 4-H, Pass Pioneers 4-H
- FFA Chapters: Coachella Valley FFA, Hemet FFA, Indio FFA, Jurupa Valley FFA, Norte Vista FFA, Perris FFA, Rubidoux FFA, San Jacinto FFA, Sherman Indian FFA Independent Exhibitors also participated in this year’s auction.
“The tremendous generosity our buyers show these students enables them to develop their passion for agriculture and gain essential life skills,” said Chris Pickering, CEO of Pickering Events, the operating company of the Fairgrounds. “Our youth exhibitors are the future of the nation’s food supply. Based on their performance this year competing for a chance at a Blue Ribbon, we’re in good hands.”
Agriculture’s Economic Impact in Riverside County
According to the 2023 Riverside County Agricultural Production Report, the county’s crop production exceeds $1.5 billion annually. In the Coachella Valley, agriculture is second only to tourism as an economic driver. While poultry entries were absent from this year’s livestock show due to a statewide ban aimed at curbing the spread of H5N1 avian flu, organizers were thrilled to see pre-pandemic participation levels in other livestock categories.
The Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival is proud to provide a platform for students to showcase their dedication and be rewarded for their hard work. The Fair extends its gratitude to all buyers, sponsors, exhibitors, judges, superintendents, club leaders, and families who made this year’s auction a success.
