C.A.L.F. Project

If you would like to help with this special project please call 518-444-3247 or email Info@Columbiafair.com

Click to donate online via Square

C.A.L.F. Project

Columbia Agricultural Learning Facility

Help us build our new agricultural learning facility for current and future generations to enjoy

A Strong History

For 185 years, the Columbia County Fair has entertained and educated visitors about the vital role agriculture plays in our community.

The agricultural barns feature more than 250 animals across four species, many exhibited in both 4-H and Open Shows. These exhibitors represent generations of families who have shaped Columbia County’s proud agricultural heritage.

The 4-H Youth Program has long been a cornerstone of the Fair, offering countless opportunities for youth to engage with agriculture year-round. It unites farm and non-farm youth in projects that promote and celebrate agriculture.
 
The Columbia County Agricultural Society remains committed to supporting this essential industry. We continue to create opportunities for local youth to expand their knowledge, skills, and passion for agriculture, ensuring the next generation carries forward the county’s rich farming legacy.

We need your help!

The estimated cost to remove, construct, and equip the new educational structure is approximately $800,000. As an organization, we have been carefully planning this project for the past two years and are able to fund a portion of the cost. However, we need the support of our community to bring this vision to completion.

The current structure, now over 100 years old, is in significant need of repair. The site presently contains three separate barns of varying sizes and capacities. Our plan is to remove these outdated buildings and replace them with a new 16,000-square-foot facility featuring an improved walkway for fairgoers and a modern, purpose-built Learning Facility.

The new Learning Facility will provide fairgoers with an engaging opportunity to learn how the agricultural industry operates and what it takes to produce the food we enjoy today. A repurposed grain silo will serve as a focal point, equipped with TV monitors and seating for training sessions, demonstrations, and informational presentations. Thus creating an inspiring space for agricultural education and community connection.

Project Progress

We have secured the necessary quotes, finalized project plans, and received full board approval to move forward with this capital project. Our goal is to break ground following the conclusion of the 2026 Fair, with completion targeted for the spring of 2027. With an estimated total project cost of $800,000, we aim to raise an additional $560,000 over the next 12 months in order to stay on schedule and make this vision a reality.

Where are we in the Process?

We have obtained the required quotes, plans and board approval to begin this capital project. We would like to break ground at the end of the 2026 fair, with a completion date in the spring of 2027. With an estimated cost of $790,000 dollars, we need to raise an additional $560,000 dollars over the next 12 months to meet our schedule.

C.A.L.F. Specifications

• 16,000 Square Foot Building with Multi-Purpose Design for Various Sized Animals
• Full Functioning Milk House With Viewing Windows for Onlookers
• Unique Learning Facility with Seating TV Monitors, and Interactive Activities
• Easily Accessible Walkways for the General Public

Such a great Fair every year. This year 2021 was my First year back since I was in elementary school which was decades back. You all worked so hard and did a wonderful job I’ll continue coming back every year.

– Jonathan B.

Love It! Nice country Fair.

– Theresa C.

Definitely the best county fair I have ever been to! The tree-lined grounds are lovely. A nice mix of attractions and exhibits with phenomenal entertainment; well worth the price of admission.

– Linda A.