By Robert Pore
robert.pore@theindependent.com

Among those questions, Olsen said, are what should the State Fair offer and what should it accomplish.

If the State Fair moves from its present location near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, two areas frequently mentioned as possible new locations are another site in Lincoln or Fonner Park in Grand Island.

But Olsen said many of those discussions have been in secret and have not included partners important to the State Fair, such as 4-H, FFA, agricultural organizations such as Farm Bureau, and vendors and exhibitors.

"All of these have a big part in the success of the fair," he said. "Obviously, we (Farm Bureau) believe agriculture should continue to be central to the fair."

What concerns Olsen, he said, "is there appears to be a movement just to move the State Fair. So much of these discussions have been behind closed doors. We hear there are discussions going on, but we have no idea what's being said."

As Nebraska's largest farm organization and a major State Fair sponsor, Olsen wants any discussion about the fair to reflect agriculture's participation in the event.

"When we're clear on what kind of State Fair we (Nebraskans) want, the location issue should become easier to solve, whether it's 'stay' or 'go,'" Olsen said.

Olsen said Farm Bureau is not opposed to the State Fair moving to Grand Island or any other viable locations.

"We are not taking a position on location at this time," Olsen said.

Several years ago, he said, the Legislature had to intervene and provide a permanent revenue stream to keep the State Fair running.

While the event has been rebuilding itself over the last several years, another major disruption could have severe consequences, especially if it isn't done properly, Olsen said.

"That is our concern, and that's why we want to make sure that we end up with a State Fair that does what we want it to do," he said.

Olsen said Farm Bureau policy encourages the Legislature to increase its support of the State Fair as a way to promote and educate Nebraskans about the state's No. 1 industry agriculture.

He said Farm Bureau opposes the relocation of the State Fair unless the State Fair board, UNL and the Legislature reach a solution that will enhance the mission of the fair by providing an equal or better venue for showcasing agriculture to the general public.

At its meeting Feb. 8, the Nebraska Farm Bureau board of directors approved a framework which urges policy makers to strongly consider prior to any agreement to move State Fair Park. The framework's points contend:

* Develop a clear vision to assure the future success of the State Fair at its new location, including a strong emphasis on promoting and educating Nebraska citizens about agriculture. An alternative site should provide ample opportunity for conducting a successful State Fair.

* The alternative site should be conducive to encouraging statewide participation and attendance. It should be selected to maximize attendance in relation to Nebraska's population, consistent with the goal of promoting and educating Nebraska citizens about agriculture.

* Major stakeholders including 4-H, FFA, and vendor and sponsor representatives should have input in any relocation decision.

* State government, the university, the host city and the general public must be committed to any proposed new location, both through participation and financial support.

Olsen said the framework, along with Farm Bureau policy, will be presented in its testimony Feb. 26 on legislative bills addressing State Fair issues. Olsen will present the testimony.