Ag still a major economic engine in ND

A new study shows the impact agriculture has on North Dakota’s economy.

The study was done by NDSU.  Vice-President for Agriculture Affairs Greg Lardy says “Nearly a $31 billion dollar economic impact to the state of North Dakota…nearly 1 in 5 jobs tied to the ag industry in the state.” Lardy says as ag processing – or “value added” – projects come on-line, that impact will grow.

Governor Doug Burgum pointed out the growth in soybean crushing plants. He says just a year ago, North Dakota had no soybean plants – but now, two plants are being developed – the “Green Bison” plant at Spiritwood and the ADM plant at Casselton. And a third plant has just been announced for Grand Forks. The Epitome project hopes to break ground during the summer of 2023.

The study shows crop production alone accounts for nearly $16 billion in impact, with commodity processing at $8 billion.