Central ND News

North Dakota stands as a significant force in agriculture, leading the United States in cattle production and 13 other commodities. Bismarck-Mandan, despite being one of the state's most populated areas, plays a crucial role in this sector. The region's urban centers act as hubs for value-added processing and agricultural production.

Nathan Schneider, Vice President of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber Economic Development Corporation (EDC), highlights the often-overlooked aspect of agriculture: "When most people think about agriculture, they focus on growing and harvesting crops or raising animals. However, you can’t neglect the other half of the industry, which is preparing those products for sale. This is where South-Central North Dakota shines."

Bismarck-Mandan benefits from strong infrastructure such as rail lines and highway access that support agricultural processing. As part of Agriculture Month in March, attention is drawn to food production's impact on the region and its potential for growth.

Burleigh County (home to Bismarck) and Morton County (home to Mandan) are key players in North Dakota's farm industry. Burleigh County hosts 709 farms across nearly 800,000 acres while Morton County has 688 farms over 1.2 million acres. Morton County leads state cattle production with Burleigh ranking seventh; both counties also excel in barley and oats production.

The diverse agriculture industry offers opportunities for companies supporting various farm types. Bismarck-Mandan attracts agricultural processing companies due to its strategic location along I-94 and accessibility by truck, train, or air.

Schneider notes that "Farmers from across North Dakota can get to Bismarck-Mandan and easily transport their products to our hub." From there, goods are distributed nationwide or processed locally for retail.

Local residents play an active role in supporting agriculture through employment or patronage at farmers markets offering fresh produce. As more manufacturers move into the area enhancing local skills will be essential.

Agriculture’s influence permeates Bismarck-Mandan life—from processing companies down to families enjoying local honey—and remains vital enough that EDC developed a newsletter dedicated solely towards farming news & value-add company support within this community.

For those interested in following developments within this thriving sector contact Emily Eback at eeback@bmcedc.com regarding subscription details ensuring continued engagement with regional investment opportunities related directly back towards advancing agricultural pursuits here locally throughout these counties surrounding greater metropolitan area itself today too!