North Dakota State University Extension and University of Minnesota Extension will jointly host a drainage water management workshop on March 18, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Memorial Union on NDSU’s campus in Fargo, North Dakota. The in-person workshop is designed to help farmers and agricultural professionals better understand drainage systems and make informed drainage management decisions.

This one-day event will focus on how subsurface (tile) drainage works, the basics of drainage design, and the performance and economic returns of drainage investments. Participants will also learn how soil characteristics influence drainage suitability and what factors should be considered before installing drainage systems.

“Properly designed tile drainage systems are long-term investments that can significantly enhance field performance and water management,” says Laxmi Prasad, NDSU Extension water engineer. “This workshop brings together leading drainage experts to share science-based knowledge and practical insights that will help participants make well-informed drainage management decisions.”

The workshop is intended for farmers, landowners, crop consultants, drainage contractors and conservation professionals interested in improving field performance while avoiding costly mistakes. Sessions will provide practical, field-based guidance and real-world examples to support effective planning, installation and long-term management of drainage systems. Session speakers will emphasize asking the right questions and making decisions that support both productivity and water management goals.

Registration details and a full agenda are available at ndsu.ag/drainage-mgmt-26.

The cost to attend is $35, and lunch and refreshments will be included.

For questions about the workshop, contact Prasad at laxmi.prasad@ndsu.edu. For registration or accommodation questions, contact Julie Bietz at 701-231-7273 or julie.bietz@ndsu.edu.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Feb. 18, 2026

Source: Laxmi Prasad, 701-231-4190, laxmi.prasad@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu