By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University Extension and its partners announce the 2026 North Dakota Reclamation Conference, highlighting the growing importance of restoring disturbed lands as energy development and agriculture continue to coexist across the state.
The conference will take place on March 3–4 at the Rough Rider Center in Watford City, North Dakota. It invites landowners, farmers, ranchers, industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers to take part in discussions focused on effective land reclamation and long-term land stewardship. The event provides a platform to share research, real-world experience, and practical approaches that support healthy soils and productive landscapes.
This year’s conference centers on the connection between reclamation and agriculture. Breakout sessions highlight applied science and real case studies that show how reclamation practices can support working lands. Topics include soil health during reclamation, land delineation, and management techniques that help restore productivity after disturbance. Attendees also have time to connect and exchange ideas during a social event at Stonehome Brewing Company.
The keynote speaker is Anna Clare Monlezun, a rancher and rangeland scientist from Colorado. She shares her experience working at the intersection of agriculture and energy development, with a focus on finding shared solutions that benefit both sectors.
“I love working with others and engaging in the tough discussions to figure out the win-wins between agriculture and energy,” says Monlezun.
Community leaders also emphasize the value of the event for landowners.
“Everyone is invited to come, from industrial leaders to farmers and ranchers,” says Howdy Lawlar, McKenzie County commissioner and rancher. “It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and learn about how reclamation should be taken care of on your land and how things should be done the right way.”
The conference will host by North Dakota State University Extension, The Society for Range Management, The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, BNI Coal, and BKS Environmental.
Registration details are available online. Early registration costs $125 before February 14 and $145 after that date. Students may attend at no cost. For more information, participants may contact miranda.meehan@ndsu.edu, NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: North Dakota, Sustainable Agriculture