Education Brief Library: Tools for leaders building sustainable communities

The Vision West ND Education Brief Library offers short, plain language briefs that help community leaders make informed decisions across western North Dakota. Current topics include CO2 pipelines and sequestration, the farmer’s share of the food dollar, and mental health challenges in agriculture. Read the briefs, share them locally, and join a committee to help guide future resources.

Read More
The 2026 Regional Plan Update is here and it's built for action

Vision West ND’s Regional Plan Update for 2026 to 2028 sets a clear framework for regional action across western North Dakota. It highlights five connected priority areas, from rural health and public safety to workforce resilience, community planning, and energy and natural resources. Learn what the plan focuses on and how you can help move it forward by joining a committee. Membership is not required.

Read More
2025 Annual Report: What We Built Together

Vision West ND is built for one purpose: to expand our reach through collaboration. The 2025 Annual Report celebrates a year of network building, shared learning, and regional momentum across western North Dakota. Download the report and see what becomes possible when leaders choose to work together.

Read More
VWND Sits Down with Rural Diaspora Community

At Vision West ND (VWND), we are committed to supporting the diverse communities that contribute to the vibrancy and growth of Western North Dakota. Recently, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dave and Jana Jenkins, the founders of the Rural Diaspora Community, a nonprofit that works to bridge the gap for African immigrants and refugees in North Dakota.

Read More
How to Become a City Planner

City planners, or urban planners, are professionals who plan out the uses of land within cities and communities based on what those communities need. City planners typically plan for economic growth and development, transportation needs, street and road design, and different zoning needs.

Read More
Lydia DeJesus
The Silent Crisis: Mental Health in Agriculture

Discover the hidden mental health struggles in farming and ranching. Explore the impact of stress, financial hardship, and unpredictable weather on agricultural families, and learn about the vital support available. Join us in addressing the mental health stigma within the agricultural community.  

Read More
Achieving Safe & Affordable Housing In ND

Empower communities and transform lives with Housing North Dakota. Help us combat homelessness and advocate for universal access to safe, affordable housing. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for all North Dakotans. 

Read More
The Coteau Properties Company - Freedom Mine: Championing Career Opportunities and Education for North Dakota

Coteau Coal Mine, situated near Beulah in rural North Dakota, is the largest lignite mine in the United States. Also known as “Freedom Mine,” this groundbreaking colliery is taking significant strides in providing valuable opportunities for the youth of the community through various programs aimed at recruitment, education, and skill development.

Read More
The NDWCA Helping Fight Against Weeds 

Are weeds taking over your garden, yard, or pasture? Cannot figure out what that invasive plant is in your grassland? The North Dakota Weed Control Association (NDWCA) can help. Founded in 1983, the NDWCA promotes effective weed management across the state. Their mission is to provide the knowledge, tools, and leadership needed to control these troublesome plants. By empowering North Dakotans with weed control expertise, the NDWCA helps our state thrive. 

Read More
Large-Scale Economic Development Reported from the Bank of North Dakota

Economic trends, potential business opportunities, and other noteworthy aspects impacting rural North Dakota. I have outlined exciting developments and key information in the blog below. I hope this information sparks a deeper understanding of our local landscape…

Read More
Single Mothers Getting a College Degree AND Affording Child Care

Supporting single mothers getting a college degree while caring for their families. How many women in your community are single mothers who would like to get a college degree, but will not put the needs of her own before her children?

Read More