Planning for the 2017 Manitoba Stampede in Morris is already underway.

Valley Agricultural Society President Pat Schmitke says they were able to raise $50,000 from a Meridian grain bin raffle at this year`s event. The money will go towards much needed hydro upgrades on the Stampede Grounds. They now have around $60,000 in the bank towards the project.

"We're just in the process now of sitting down with the electrician to plan how we're going to move forward with this later in the fall this year, as well in the spring next year so that we're ready to go for next year's Stampede," explained Schmitke.

He figures they will need about $100,000 to complete the hydro upgrades.

Schmitke adds they are always looking for new ways to fundraise, noting they are currently applying for grants and are also planning on hosting another fundraising social in 2017.