About us
Wide Open Spaces Foundation is investing in an extraordinary gathering place that honors our past, energizes our present, and secures a strong future in Gregory County, South Dakota.
With expansive views over rolling South Dakota hills, the Burke Rodeo Grounds are the perfect place to spend a warm summer day. We think it's South Dakota at its very best.
Wide Open Spaces was founded to help ensure the space stands the test of time, bringing future generations something we've adored for three decades. As the permanent home to the Burke Stampede Rodeo and Gregory County 4-H, we've created a great collaboration to form a strong foundation of great programming for kids and adults alike.
We are raising funds to develop the land with a grandstand, new arenas, a bandstand, and a large building well-suited for gatherings big and small.
Driven by hometown ideas
What’s taken shape on these grounds is nothing short of incredible. Take the Burke Stampede Rodeo, a central South Dakota staple for more than 35 years. What started as neighbors coming together became something much bigger: A tradition, a destination, a point of pride. That spirit is exactly what carries us forward.
By and for our community
As we continue developing this beautiful stretch of land just southwest of Burke, we’re not creating something new from scratch: We’re building on decades of momentum. And with people who believed that if you create something for your own community first, others will come.
Wide Open Spaces Board of Directors
Zeb Carlson
Board Chair
Zeb, a Burke native, 4-H alum, and rodeo fan, is driven by turning ideas into meaningful impact. With decades of experience in nonprofits, marketing, and fundraising, he brings both creativity and a bit of humor to every endeavor.
Amber Horn
Secretary
Amber’s roots run deep on Burke’s Main Street: It's where she grew up and now continues to serve the community just down the road, leading Burke's economic development.
Rochelle Tietgen
Treasurer
Rochelle has called Burke home for decades, raising a family rooted in 4-H. Her attention to detail and great sense of humor are true assets to our community.
Renee Sutton
Board Member
Renee loves rodeo. As a co-founder of the Burke Stampede, she has a gift for connecting people and fostering a vibrant, close-knit community.
Kate Witt
Board Member
Kate's creativity, great ideas, and strong collaboration make her not only a great art teacher but also a fantastic community builder.
