Improvements made at Iowa State Fairgrounds thanks to Blue Ribbon Foundation

DES MOINES, Iowa — Next time you’re at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, you’ll see some improvements.

The sheep barn was renovated thanks to funds from the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation. Inside you’ll notice a fresh coat of paint, new office, and bathrooms. It’s part of the “Back the Barns” campaign to spruce up all the animal barns.

There’s a new ramp to the Agriculture Building. Crews are also in the process of replacing the hundreds of benches.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is in charge of upkeep and improvements at the fairgrounds. Executive Director Peter Cownie says they couldn’t do it without the help of Iowans.

“Every time any Iowan supports the Blue Ribbon Foundation, you’re making this institution better for all,” Cownie said. “And we’re just beyond grateful for the generosity of Iowans. Iowans have made the Iowa State Fair what it is today and the institution it is and the envy of the nation because of their generosity and we’re just beyond grateful.”

You can give back and catch the “Fair Fever” early this weekend at the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

The Corndog Kickoff takes place on Saturday, July 13 and includes fair food grazing, a silent and live auction.

You can buy tickets at the Varied Industries Building day-of or online .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.