Big Fresno Fair looks to conserve water

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Preparations are underway for opening day of the Big Fresno Fair on October 1st.

New landscaping at the fair shines a light on the drought. Decomposed granite and rocks have replaced flowers at one entrance.

CEO John Alkire showed us around and said no doubt the drought will have a big impact on the fair. Alkire said, "We have a new drought resistant area. We went into the park area where we have the big gazebo and we took out two lush green locations in there and went all drought resistant."

The plants are in place and ready to be featured around the big boulders to help give the area the feel of an amphitheater. Synthetic lawn will also be going in.

Jeanie Best of Belmont Nursery said, "We're just backfilling with a lot of drought tolerant and water wise. We're using a lot of grasses that are very California friendly."

New misters are in place in the livestock area but this will be a dry fair. The animals will only be washed when they arrive.

Alkire said, "There's only been a few fairs to take this on but I think in our area it's very important we stay cognizant there is a water shortage and we need to address that."

With vintage signs and tractor parts grabbing your attention, the Big Fresno Fair museum will be easy to spot behind the Paul Paul theater stage. Tours will be available every day at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.