North Dakota Discovery Farms
North Dakota Discovery Farms are working farms and ranches whose owners partner with natural resource managers. Together, they evaluate the effectiveness of various practices at reducing environmental impacts while maintaining farm profitability. The concept originated in Wisconsin in response to concerns that environmental regulations were inconsistent with profitable agricultural production. Similar concerns exist in North Dakota. The Discovery Farms program provides real-life data that is necessary for making informed decisions regarding agriculture and the environment.
Currently, the program is in a data collection and analysis phase. If the data call for change, producers will coordinate with natural resource managers to implement the most feasible management practices for their respective operations. Ultimately, North Dakota Discovery Farms will help decision makers strike a balance between profitable agricultural production and protection of natural resources.
Participants
- Amann Family Ranch, Dazey
- Bartholomay Brothers Family Farms, Sheldon
- Johannes Farm and Feedlot, Underwood
Visit the Participants page to learn more about the projects underway at these operations.
Cooperators
Visit the Contact page to reach the program coordinator.