New England Rodeo looks to host events in Rochester

ROCHESTER — New England Rodeo is looking to get back in the saddle this summer, seeking approval to host their events at 65 Pine Street on the Rochester Fairgrounds.

According to rodeo Strategic Advisor and Producer Kelly Pina, the “family-friendly” event would  take place on the fairgrounds every other Saturday from June through September.

Around 1,000 to 2,000 attendees will potentially pack the stands each week to see barrel racing and bull riding, in addition to occasional speciality events such as mounted shooting and mustang demos.

The competitions were previously hosted in Norton, until the construction of a 300 unit housing development on the grounds caused them to seek temporary relocation for this summer. 

“We understand Rochester is a great place with [a] sense of community and has that sense of agriculture,” Pina said at a Rochester Select Board meeting on Monday, April 14.

She emphasized that the New England Rodeo team wants the event to enhance the Rochester community.

“We’re not looking to create an undue burden for our neighbors. A big part of who we are and what we do is trying to support the local community,” said Pina.

In order to reduce noise pollution to surrounding residents, Pina said they would place speakers facing away from housing and toward the woods.

Safety for the humans and animals at the rodeo is also a crucial factor in hosting the rodeo, according to Pina.

“It is a dangerous sport and that’s something that we’re aware of. Safety is our top priority, not only for our attendees but for the contestants as well,” said Pina.

She said the staff plans to work closely with the Rochester Fire Department, Police Station and other emergency services in order to create a secure environment.

The animals on site are “treated with the best respect and care,” having access to veterinarians, chiropractors and nutritionists, Pina said

“Our animals are our greatest priority, and I know there can be a lot of confusion about rodeo and we do a great job of trying to educate the public better,” said Pina. “[The] animals are professional sports players. They enjoy what they do.”

The Select Board said they’ve received “both positive and negative calls” about the possible relocation of the rodeo to Rochester for the summer.

At a public hearing on Monday, April 28, the New England Rodeo will inform attendees of the logistics of the event and present a powerpoint presentation with additional information.