As the last carnival ride is dismantled and the final food vendor pulls away, another crew quietly gets to work.

While thousands of fairgoers leave with memories of concerts, livestock shows and corn dogs, the Stanislaus County Fair maintenance team begins the less glamorous task of restoring the fairgrounds after 10 days of nonstop activity.

"Our Maintenance Department is the backbone of our fairgrounds," said Stanislaus County Fair CEO Kim Williams. "Long before the gates open, they're hard at work pulling equipment out of storage, tackling electrical and sewer issues, repairing facilities and making sure every corner of the grounds is ready for a successful fair. Every department relies on the Maintenance Department in one way or another, and their dedication keeps everything running smoothly."

Leading that team is Maintenance Supervisor Darren Siebert, now in his 15th year with the fair. Alongside Nora Morales, Kathy Poland and Lloyd Christian, Siebert and his crew spend weeks cleaning, repairing and rejuvenating every corner of the grounds. From worn-out grass to heavily used stages and arenas, the crew works tirelessly to erase the signs of one of the county's busiest events.

Williams praised Siebert for his ability to solve problems and keep the fairgrounds operating efficiently.

"Darren Siebert, maintenance supervisor, is known for finding solutions to just about any challenge that comes his way," Williams said. "His experience and problem-solving skills help keep projects moving and ensure the fairgrounds are prepared for a successful fair."

For Siebert, the work extends far beyond the fair's 10-day run.

"It just isn't a 10-day run," he said. "It's really the whole month of July. It's about a six-month process."

The fairgrounds' once-vibrant green lawns often bear the brunt of heavy foot traffic. Restoring them is one of the crew's biggest priorities.

"We're probably talking about a good two weeks of double and triple watering to get it back up and get it looking respectable," Siebert said.

The arena, free stage and surrounding grounds also require extensive cleanup and repairs before the fairgrounds can return to hosting community events throughout the year.

This year's cleanup is especially meaningful for Poland, who will retire in August after 13 years with the Stanislaus County Fair.

"I've loved every minute of it," Poland said.

Before leaving, Poland has been training Morales, who will step into her role and continue helping keep the fairgrounds looking their best.

Christian, a five-year member of the maintenance team, said he enjoys taking pride in making the fairgrounds a welcoming place for the community.

Williams said the success of the Stanislaus County Fair depends on the dedication of the entire maintenance staff, whose work is often unseen by the public.

"The hard work, dedication and teamwork of our entire Maintenance Department make our fair possible," Williams said. "Their efforts often happen behind the scenes, but their impact is seen across the entire fairgrounds."

Whether repairing facilities, restoring grass or preparing the grounds for the next event, the maintenance crew's work often goes unnoticed by the thousands who visit each summer. Yet their efforts ensure the fairgrounds are restored, refreshed and ready to welcome visitors again—long after the lights of the midway have gone dark.