Central ND News

Jan 24, 2024

WASHINGTON — After 26 years of dedicated service, the Director of the North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources, Lynn Helms, has announced his intention to retire, effective June 30, 2024. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota expressed his appreciation for Helms' contributions and highlighted his invaluable expertise.

Senator Cramer, who has worked closely with Helms throughout his career, acknowledged the director's significant role in shaping North Dakota's mineral industry. He stated, "Lynn is an invaluable resource to me in the United States Senate, as he was in the House, and as he was when I was on the Public Service Commission. He is a treasure, not just to North Dakota, but a treasure to the entire industry."

Recognizing Helms' deep understanding of regulation and the importance of mineral resources to the state's economy and American security, Senator Cramer emphasized his admiration for Helms' work. He remarked, "He is a spectacular regulator who understands the role of regulation, the role of rich mineral resources in North Dakota, and its contribution to American security and America's economy."

Expressing his reluctance to accept Helms' retirement, Senator Cramer jokingly stated, "Lynn will be greatly missed, which is why I've decided not to accept his resignation. I refuse. That's it. It's over. You can't go, Lynn." He added, "But if you do, thank you for all you have done. Congratulations, and please, if you get bored, you always can have a job working on the Environment and Public Works Committee in the United States Senate. God bless you."

During Helms' tenure, North Dakota experienced significant growth in oil and gas production. Under his supervision, the state's average daily oil production increased from 99,217 barrels per day in 1998 to an all-time high of 1,519,037 barrels per day in 2019. By the end of 2023, oil production had stabilized at approximately 1.2 million barrels per day. Additionally, Helms played a crucial role in achieving record-breaking natural gas capture, reaching over 3.2 billion cubic feet per day.

Senator Cramer also acknowledged Helms' contributions to legislative efforts, such as the REGROW Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at remediating orphaned wells nationwide. The state program implemented by Helms served as the foundation for this legislation, which was ultimately included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed into law on November 15, 2021.

Lynn Helms' retirement marks the end of a distinguished career dedicated to the development and regulation of North Dakota's mineral resources. His expertise and leadership will be greatly missed, both in North Dakota and across the industry.