Lander’s Equine Scene Says If You Build a (Better) Barn, They Will Come

The Lander 4th of July rodeo—the oldest in Wyoming—makes a significant economic impact each summer and is beloved by many Lander residents (not just because it brings in tourism dollars). What those residents might not know is that the barn the rodeo is hosted in also is available for other equine and agriculture events—like open rides, barrel racing, and roping—during the year. And it could host even more if the facilities were in better condition. Knowing this, the Lander Old Timer’s Rodeo Association came up with a solution that would help ensure a robust equine scene year-round: make some important improvements to the arena and other barn features and launch a concentrated effort to let community members know the facility is available for other uses. The group just needed a little help to get their effort off the ground, so they reached out to the LOR Foundation. LOR’s funding will help cover the cost of equipment and professional services to renovate the barn and arena and support a marketing effort to build community awareness.