Funding supported site analysis and strategic planning activities to accommodate and encourage investment in livestock production. The planning area includes Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, and Ward Counties and Townships.

We partnered with First District Association of Local Governments (FDALG) to conduct a regional site analysis to assist in identifying locations that meet minimum state siting and local zoning regulations, as well as being in proximity of necessary infrastructure to support animal agricultural production. Based upon the analysis, a hierarchy of potential sites were ranked as good, better, and best sites. The final reports consist of a database and map identifying potential locations that meet the requirements of the analysis.

Timeline

May 2024: Two kickoff meetings were held on May 28 to introduce community leaders to the project and invite their participation in the planning process. FDALG provided an overview covering the project’s methodology, anticipated outcomes, and key information required to complete the study.

October 25, 2024: A critical part of the analysis involved applying local zoning regulations. SBPC requested that Counties and Townships complete a zoning survey to support this effort.

June 2024 – May 2025: SBPC and FDALG collaborated with Counties and Townships to finalize GIS maps. FDALG then conducted an analysis to identify sites that met the minimum criteria for classification as good, better, or best.

November 2024 – June 2025: Preliminary findings were shared with each County for review and feedback.

July 22, 2025: SBPC hosted the Livestock Development: Final Report & Future Planning event to share findings and foster meaningful dialogue. The event highlighted key insights from the analysis and provided a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities in livestock development.