By Scout Nelson
North Dakota is set to expand its agriculture research leadership under a new U.S. Department of Agriculture reorganization plan. The plan supports the state’s role in research by adding new projects, funding, and employees to strengthen its position as a leading agriculture hub.
Under this plan, North Dakota will gain 45 additional Agricultural Research Service employees and 10 new research projects. These projects bring about $28.5 million in annual research funding. The work will move from the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center in Maryland to locations in North Dakota.
The reorganization focuses on placing research closer to farmers and rural communities. This approach helps improve innovation and ensures research supports real farming needs. The state’s strong network of universities and research centers makes it a key location for these efforts.
USDA’s plan includes moving 2 projects and 17 employees to Fargo. At the same time, Grand Forks will receive 8 new projects and 28 employees. These changes will strengthen research capacity and create more opportunities for collaboration across the state.
“With North Dakota State University, the University of North Dakota, Grand Farm, and our existing ARS facilities, North Dakota is already a premier agriculture research hub, so it only makes sense that USDA would bring new, ongoing research projects and additional ARS employees to our state as part of efforts to refocus USDA on its core missions,” said Hoeven. “We appreciate Secretary Rollins for recognizing North Dakota’s ag research leadership and utilizing our state more fully in USDA’s work. USDA’s reorganization plan will expand North Dakota’s ag research leadership and keep our state at the forefront in helping our agriculture producers increase their productivity and success.”
This announcement builds on ongoing efforts to grow research programs in the state. New initiatives include expanding technology testing and policy research through university partnerships. These efforts support long-term growth in agriculture and help farmers improve productivity.
Overall, the USDA reorganization strengthens North Dakota’s leadership in agriculture research and supports future innovation in farming.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy