State of Region 2

Join the Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC) board and staff members for an informal gathering to discuss rural needs and solutions for our communities. This event will spark dialogue amongst stakeholders and decision-makers that addresses the unique needs and opportunities of North Dakota Region 2 (Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville, and Ward counties). We will be joined by Representative Paul J. Thomas and regional leaders. 

Food and beverages will be provided. We hope to see you there!

Tentative Agenda

4:30 PM — Check-In

5:00 PM — Welcome

5:15 PM — State of Region

This presentation will provide an overview of Region 2, highlighting its unique characteristics, challenges, and opportunities. It will include an overview of the recently completed strategic plan and outline key goals and objectives to address the needs of rural communities.

5:30 PM — Dinner

Sponsored by First Western Bank & Trust 

5:45 PM — Opportunities in Local Food Systems: Economic Drivers for Region 2

Facilitated by Economic Recovery Corps Fellow, Felicity Merritt, this panel will showcase how local food systems, especially ranching and meat processing, can drive economic growth by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and addressing food security in our region. The panelists’ personal stories will help illustrate these points and engage the audience by connecting real-life experiences with the broader economic benefits. 

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. 

6:15 PM — State of Child Care

Led by Vision West ND, this presentation will dive into the child care needs impacting workforce in our region.  

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

6:45— Thriving Rural Communities

Led by Communities Acting Together for Change and Hope, this presentation will provide a general overview on how refugee resettlement, through private sponsorship, can help build and sustain thriving rural communities.

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

7:00 PM — Rural Capacity 

Rural communities need capacity to leverage local assets for long-term, shared prosperity. This presentation will provide an overview of our region's current capacity and effective, collaborative rural capacity-building strategies.

7:20 PM — Closing Remarks 

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.