The north dakota agricultural experiment station (NDAES) utilizes hatch capacity funds to support a wide range of research programs aimed at advancing agriculture, food systems, and natural resources

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded North Dakota State University $4,508,986 under the Hatch Act Payments to Agricultural Experiment Stations program (CFDA 10.203) on October 1, 2025.

The North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station uses these funds to conduct agricultural research spanning plant breeding for climate-resilient crop varieties suited to the North Central climate, plant protection strategies targeting disease and weed management, and soil health and fertility research to enhance nutrient efficiency and sustainability. Animal sciences research focuses on improving animal health and performance through nutrition and management practices. The station pursues rangeland research to enhance forage quality and wildlife habitats, investigates new uses for agricultural crops and livestock products, and explores novel materials derived from agricultural commodities through biosystems processing. Economic studies provide insights into agricultural markets, trade opportunities, and risks. Cross-cutting research in precision agriculture and agricultural technologies promotes innovation in animal agriculture and cropping systems management.

Research outcomes are delivered through peer-reviewed scientific publications, scientific presentations, research reports to funding agencies including commodity groups, and direct communications to North Dakota producers, agronomists, and consultants at regional meetings and conferences.

Performance runs through September 30, 2027, with place of performance at North River, North Dakota. The funding is classified as a formula grant. Under the Hatch Act distribution formula, funds must be fully expended in the fiscal year of appropriation; up to 100 percent may carry over for one year after the fiscal year ends without prior approval.

Key research areas include plant breeding to develop resilient crop varieties suited to the north central climate, plant protection strategies focusing on disease and weed management, and soil health and fertility research to enhance nutrient efficiency and sustainability. Animal sciences focus on improving animal health and performance through nutrition and management practices, while rangeland research seeks to enhance forage quality and wildlife habitats. Research into agricultural products explores new uses for crops and livestock, while biosystems processing investigates novel materials derived from agricultural commodities. Economic studies provide insights into agricultural markets, trade opportunities, and risks. Cross-cutting research in precision agriculture and agricultural technologies promotes innovation in the management of animal agriculture and cropping systems. The outcomes of the above research studies will prioritize providing science-based solutions to producers and stakeholders across north dakota for the improvement of agriculture, food systems, and natural resources. The outcomes of the research conducted will be delivered in disseminations that include peer-reviewed scientific publication and scientific presentations. The producers and stakeholders of north dakota will also receive outcomes from the above scientific studies through research reports to funding agencies (e.g., commodity groups), and through direct communications to producers, agronomists, and consultants at regional meetings and conferences with the aim to provide positive impacts from our research.