State of Region 2

Join Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC) for an evening centered on rural priorities, regional progress, and community-driven solutions. This annual gathering brings together SBPC’s board and committee members, regional partners, and community leaders to reflect on the year and explore what is next for North Dakota Region 2 (Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, and Ward counties). Through shared insights and dialogue, this event will highlight the unique challenges and opportunities facing our communities.

Food and beverages will be provided. RSVP through the event page is required to confirm your attendance.

Agenda

5:00 PM — Check-in and Networking

Connect with regional leaders, partners, and community members. Appetizers and refreshments provided.

5:30 PM — Opening Remarks

5:35 PM — SBPC Regional Update & Priorities

A look back at the year’s accomplishments and a preview of what is ahead. 

5:50 PM — Strengthening Rural Food Systems: The North Central Grocery & Food Hub Initiative

Rural communities face growing challenges in accessing fresh, affordable food. The North Central Grocery & Food Hub Initiative will pilot new ways for rural grocers and producers to cut costs and expand markets. By combining cooperative purchasing among independent stores with a regional hub for local foods, the project will connect more farms to grocery shelves, restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities. Backed by a $12.6M Bush Foundation investment, this model aims to lower costs, stabilize supply, strengthen communities, and keep dollars local.

Presenter: Ellen Huber, Rural Development Director, North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC)

Moderator: Felicity Merritt, Economic Recovery Corps Fellow, SBPC

Panelists: Ellen Huber (NDAREC), Lyndsay Ulrickson (Grantmaking Officer, The Bush Foundation)

The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration and the International Economic Development Council. 

6:40 PM — Advancing Livestock Development in Our Region 

This panel will explore how planning, public investment, and collaborative partnerships are driving livestock development. Hear from leaders about key funding programs, policy initiatives, and collaborative efforts that are unlocking new opportunities for producers and communities.

Moderator: Erin Parker, Economic Development Project Specialists, SBPC

Panelists: Senator Paul J. Thomas (District 6), Amber Wood (Executive Director, ND Livestock Alliance), ND Department of Agriculture

The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBPC. 

7:10 PM — Rural Workforce

This panel will explore how rural communities are building a stronger, more resilient workforce by welcoming and integrating newcomers. State and local leaders will share practical strategies for implementing workforce development programs, fostering community collaboration, and creating environments of belonging. Through policy innovation and grassroots efforts, panelists will highlight how inclusive approaches are helping rural economies thrive.

Moderator: Briselda Hernandez, Executive Director, SBPC

Panelists: Derrick Gross (Executive Director, Communities Acting Together for Change and Hope), Deb Nelson (Administrator, Vision West), Paige Kuntz (Global Talent Administrator, Global Talent Office)

The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBPC. 

7:40 PM — Closing Remarks

Event Sponsors

Thank you to our banking and lending partners for their commitment to advancing regional development. Your support plays a vital role in strengthening our communities and driving progress.

About Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC): Organized under Chapter 54-40.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, SBPC got its start in 1972 with a single mission: to advance economic progress in North Dakota Region 2. Though we’ve grown and changed since our founding, our passion for helping communities and entrepreneurs stays the same. 

North Dakota Regional Councils:  SBPC is one of eight regional councils serving North Dakota. The state established regional councils recognizing that planning and development efforts can be strengthened when aided by studies, planning, and implementation of both a statewide and regional character. The impact of regional councils can be seen, felt, and measured all throughout North Dakota.  Whether it is building local economies, building communities, improving infrastructure, or developing workforce, regional councils often play a role in enhancing grassroots efforts for community and statewide progress!  Visit www.ndassociationofregionalcouncils.com to learn more. 

This event serves as Souris Basin Planning Council’s annual meeting.

Souris Basin Planning Council does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services. For special accommodations or questions regarding the meeting schedule, please contact staff in advance at 701.255.1982. In the event that any or all of the members of the governing body participate in the meeting by telephone or video, a speakerphone or monitor will be available at the location noted for each meeting.