Dickinson Research Extension Center
Our Objectives: For the families of North Dakota we research and report on agricultural methods that
- are SENSIBLE
- appear SUSTAINABLE
- advance STEWARDSHIP
ABOUT THE DREC
The Dickinson Research Extension Center was established by the 1905 North Dakota Legislature as a research location representative of the Missouri Plateau region. The goal was to develop research on crop production for farmers of the region and to improve native and introduced forage crop production for cattle ranchers.
Over the years the Center has grown from the original 160 acres to the current 4,916 acres - 3,259 acres are at the ranch unit north of Dickinson where range and beef research is conducted.
Today, the Dickinson Research Extension Center has a unique blend of staff and programs. Research and Extension staff include animal, crop and range scientists. Work at the Center focuses on these areas:
- AGRONOMY: The DREC continues research in tillage, variety evaluations,
rotations
and organic production as well. The Soil Health Demonstration project
in concert with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the soil
conservation districts from Stark, Billings and Dunn counties, and
Dickinson State University is a major collaborative effort.
- BEEF SYSTEMS: The DREC is continuing research that integrates crop and livestock
enterprises needed for producer success in western North Dakota.
- BIOSECURITY: The DREC is developing animal identification systems that provide
the
source and age verification demanded by consumers and needed to reduce
the spread of pathogens.
- CROPPING SYSTEMS: The DREC is developing crop rotations that utilize moisture and
combine the positive aspect of diversity from agronomy, range and
livestock practices.
- ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY: The DREC is working with producers to minimize potential pollution
and
capture the nutrient value of livestock waste.
- HORTICULTURE: The DREC evaluates many species of plants and many products that
local
residents use in lawns, gardens, and shelterbelts.
- RANGELAND SYSTEMS: The DREC has developed an optimal system of grazing based on
animal-plant interactions. The "twice over" system improves range
conditions and improves the financial outlook for producers.
- SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE: The DREC is studying ways to simultaneously meet economic, social
and
environmental needs through agriculture.
The Dickinson Research Extension Center Ranch Headquarters is located 22 miles north and 3 miles west of Dickinson, ND or 2miles south and 3 miles west of Manning, ND. A sign marks the turnoff from Highway 22.
Dr. Kris Ringwall,
Director Dickinson Research Extension Center
1041 State Avenue
Dickinson, ND 58601
701-483-2348 phone
701-483-2005 fax
email: kris.ringwall@ndsu.edu
