The Central States Fairgrounds has shut down activities indefinitely due to the spread of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Events including the Crossroads Barrel Race, open riding, outdoor arenas, and stalls have been suspended as part of heightened biosecurity measures.
Ron Jeffries, general manager of Central States Fair, Inc. emphasized the move is aimed at protecting the upcoming 2026 Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo, which draws more than 300,000 people annually.
The Hyde County Sheriff’s Office confirmed South Dakota’s first likely case of EHV-1 on Nov. 22. Officials urge horse owners to isolate exposed animals for at least 21 days and avoid sharing equipment.
Cases linked to recent barrel racing events in Texas and Oklahoma have prompted cancellations nationwide. Multiple stables in the Black Hills are advising clients not to move horses off their grounds as a precaution.
Jeffries said organizers will closely monitor the situation and may restrict animals from outbreak areas to protect the Stock Show. Officials will reassess conditions after Thanksgiving and encourage anyone who’s horses have traveled in the past 30 days to follow quarantine protocols.
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