Thomas DeSutter, a professor at North Dakota State University | Official Website
Thomas DeSutter, a professor at North Dakota State University | Official Website
The 2025 North Dakota Reclamation Conference, themed “Future of Reclamation in North Dakota,” is set to take place from March 4-5 at the Rough Rider Center in Watford City. The event aims to gather industry leaders, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss reclamation needs linked with the state's expanding energy sector.
Attendees will have access to general sessions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. These activities are designed to encourage collaboration among professionals from various sectors including regulatory agencies, landowners, and researchers.
Thomas DeSutter, a professor at North Dakota State University and research leader for the School of Natural Resource Sciences, emphasized the importance of evolving reclamation strategies alongside the energy industry's growth. "The energy industry plays a vital role in North Dakota’s economy," he stated. "This conference provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss how to balance energy development with responsible land stewardship."
With North Dakota's energy sector growing through investments in enhanced oil recovery and infrastructure such as pipelines and data centers, understanding future reclamation challenges is crucial. This year's conference will concentrate on aligning these strategies with forthcoming energy developments to ensure sustainability and resource management.
Lynn Helms, former director of the North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources, will deliver a keynote address offering insights into the state's energy industry's future and related reclamation needs.
Other speakers will cover significant topics such as:
- The future of pipeline and transmission infrastructure.
- Enhanced oil recovery technologies' impact on reclamation.
- Long-term prospects for legacy industries.
- Best practices for emerging sectors' reclamation efforts.
The event is organized by NDSU Extension alongside Dickinson State University, Society for Range Management, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service, North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, BNI Coal, and BKS Environmental.
Registration for the conference is now open. Early registration costs $125 if completed by February 14th; afterward it increases to $145. Students can register free of charge.
Further information or registration can be accessed via www.ndreclamation.com or by contacting Miranda Meehan at 701-231-7683 or miranda.meehan@ndsu.edu.
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