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Gov. Kelly Armstrong has appointed Levi Bachmeier as North Dakota's next Superintendent of Public Instruction, selecting a native son with deep roots in the state's education system to lead the department.
Bachmeier, 35, currently serves as business manager for the West Fargo School District and brings a diverse background of classroom teaching, education policy, and administrative experience to the role. He will succeed Kirsten Baesler, who was recently confirmed as an assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education.
"I'm a very proud product of our K-12 system," Bachmeier told reporters at Wednesday's announcement. "I am incredibly confident that it can be even better."
A West Fargo native and graduate, Bachmeier earned an education degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. He previously taught high school social studies with Teach for America and was a policy fellow with the US Department of Education. He also served as an education policy advisor for former Gov. Doug Burgum.
Armstrong praised Bachmeier's comprehensive understanding of education, highlighting his experience on multiple state education boards and his commitment to improving student outcomes.
Bachmeier emphasized a non-partisan approach to education, stating that he will focus on what's best for students regardless of political affiliation. He plans to visit as many of the state's 168 school districts as possible, adopting a "listen to learn" leadership strategy.
Bachmeier will officially assume the role upon Baesler's resignation, with the exact date still to be determined due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. However, once he assumes the role, Bachmeier will serve until the November 2026 general election. He has immediately resigned from his current positions on the State Board of Higher Education and other educational boards to focus on the superintendent role.
Baesler expressed confidence in Bachmeier's ability to lead, praising his commitment to advancing education and his experience in the field.
As a parent of two young daughters, Bachmeier said his personal mission is to ensure every child in North Dakota receives an excellent education.
North Dakota oil production held firm in August, posting 35.75 million barrels, or about 1.15 million barrels per day, according to the latest _Director’s Cut_ from the Department of Mineral Resources. The figure is slightly below July’s output by roughly 10,000 barrels per day but remains above the state’s revenue forecast.
Gas production averaged 3.55 billion cubic feet per day, marking a modest dip from the previous month. McKenzie County once again led the state with 11.1 million barrels produced, followed by Williams, Mountrail, and Divide counties, together accounting for more than 96% of total output.
DMR Director Nathan Anderson noted during his opening statement that the department has received two applications under the new development well incentive program established under SB 2397, which seeks to encourage new wells to be drilled using “new and innovative drilling techniques”. Chord Energy will drill the wells, with Anderson expecting two more operators to submit applications in the coming months.
North Dakota’s rig count remained steady at 28, part of 548 operating across the U.S., with 43% in Texas. The Williston Basin accounted for 30 rigs, including two in Montana. Anderson said the consistency reflects a balanced response to price swings and operational efficiency gains.
Prices hovered around $62 per barrel in August, while North Dakota crude averaged $58.08. The market saw volatility driven by global oversupply and new tariffs on Russian companies. Gas prices at Henry Hub were around $3.30 per MMBtu.
Producers continued to make strides in gas management, increasing statewide capture to 95.4%. Anderson credited both operators and midstream companies for pursuing “aggressive, responsible” gas handling targets.
The state issued 95 drilling permits in September, maintaining a consistent pace over the summer months. Well completions dipped slightly, with 56 in September compared to 88 in August. The total well count stands at 19,606, with about 2,200 inactive.
Longer-lateral drilling remains on the rise, with more than 1,200 three- and four-mile permits approved to date. Cycle times are improving, averaging 115 days from spud to stimulation.
Pipeline data show a small decline in oil shipments offset by increased rail traffic to refineries in the Pacific Northwest, where demand for light, sweet Bakken crude remains strong.
Despite price fluctuations and global uncertainty, Anderson said the state’s fundamentals remain solid: “We’re holding steady, capturing more gas, and operating efficiently.”
North Dakota's vast Bakken oilfields could soon yield another treasure: lithium, the battery metal fueling the technology revolution.
The Renewable Energy Council on Tuesday recommended approving a $500,000 grant to Wellspring Hydro, a company aiming to commercialize extracting lithium from the millions of gallons of salty produced water generated daily by oilfield operations.
The grant, if finalized by the North Dakota Industrial Commission on Oct. 27, would propel Wellspring's modular direct lithium extraction technology from field trials to full-scale production. Chief Operating Officer Mat Hirst described the project's potential to tap up to 50,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent annually, enough to rival major U.S. projects and address a glaring domestic shortfall in critical minerals.
The Bakken's produced water currently burdens producers with disposal costs and environmental concerns. Wellspring's process uses proprietary ion-exchange media to selectively pull lithium from the brine, leaving the water largely unchanged for reinjection into disposal wells. Hirst said field trials in June and July near Killdeer demonstrated striking efficiency: up to 99% lithium removal in runs lasting as little as 15 minutes, with averages exceeding 95% across multiple tests.
He highlighted the sustainability edge over traditional lithium mining, which guzzles freshwater in arid regions.
Partnering with Liberty Stream Infrastructure Partners, Hirst said Wellspring has processed over 250,000 barrels of brine in a West Texas demonstration plant, which is North America's largest operational direct lithium extraction system, handling 10,000 barrels daily. He said batches of 150 barrels yield lithium chloride eluate, which is now being refined into 99.5% pure lithium carbonate by mid-November. Hirst said the setup mirrors North Dakota plans: pretreatment via dissolved air flotation to skim oils and solids, followed by extraction in 6,500-gallon tanks upgrading to 20,000-gallon units.
Hirst said the lithium concentrations in Bakken brine — nearly three times those in the Permian Basin — give North Dakota a competitive edge. He said U.S. demand for lithium carbonate is projected to hit 500,000 tons by 2030, yet planned projects won't cover even current needs of 100,000 tons. Wellspring targets battery-grade material meeting specs for clients like Packet Digital, a Fargo-based battery manufacturer, and potential giants such as Tesla.
The grant would fund $290,000 in site qualifications, including sampling 10 high-lithium disposal wells across Dunn, McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams counties, plus TENORM testing to ensure no radioactive contaminants hitch a ride with the lithium. The remaining $710,000 supports refining validation, pretreatment pilots and third-party analysis at the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University, steps that are crucial for off-taker confidence.
Hirst emphasized building a "lithium ecosystem" beyond extraction: on-site refining units powered by generators or grid ties, media production in-state and supply chains linking to battery manufacturing.
Hirst said challenges remain: permitting with the state Oil and Gas Division and Department of Environmental Quality, plus navigating fluctuating lithium prices post-COVID. Yet, with drilling pushing west amid stable oil programs, the timing aligns. He said success could transform waste into wealth, bolstering North Dakota's clean energy production while slashing reliance on imports.
The North Dakota Renewable Energy Program has recommended funding a $500,000 grant request from the University of North Dakota’s College of Engineering and Mines to advance domestic battery material production and strengthen the state’s role in critical minerals development. The proposal—titled _“Empowering the Critical Minerals for Novel Cathode Materials-Based Batteries”_—was also presented Tuesday by principal investigator Dr. Xiaodong Hou.
The $1 million project, led by UND’s Center for Process Engineering Research (CPER) in partnership with Packet Digital LLC, aims to create a closed-loop supply chain for advanced lithium-ion batteries used in drones and other renewable energy technologies. The effort would reduce U.S. reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly China, and leverage North Dakota’s growing expertise in critical minerals, rare earth elements, and energy innovation.
Dr. Hou outlined the project’s core objectives: developing lab-scale separation and purification processes for nickel and cobalt; synthesizing advanced cathode materials; designing pilot-scale production systems; and evaluating battery performance. The project also includes establishing a new Battery Materials Qualification and Testing Laboratory at UND to support continued research and workforce development.
UND’s research will collaborate with Talon Metals, which is developing nickel processing capabilities; Wellspring Hydro, which extracts lithium from produced water in North Dakota oilfields; and Packet Digital, a Fargo-based company with two decades of experience in smart battery systems and Department of Defense partnerships.
If approved, the initiative could help transform North Dakota’s natural and industrial assets into high-value products, supporting national energy security and new job creation in mining, advanced manufacturing, and renewable technology sectors.
In response, Dr. Hou emphasized the project’s integration of renewable applications through domestic material sourcing, sustainable production methods, and battery recycling strategies. “This is about building a closed-loop supply chain for advanced Li-ion batteries, by empowering ND's rich critical minerals with innovative cathode materials right here in North Dakota,” he said.
Renewable Energy Council members agreed the project’s focus on strengthening the state’s clean energy and critical mineral infrastructure aligns with North Dakota’s long-term strategy of diversifying its energy economy.
Scott Anderson, Chief Investment Officer for North Dakota, updated the Legacy and Budget Stabilization Fund Advisory Board this week on the state’s Legacy Fund, which topped $13 billion as of June 30, 2025.
Shortly after, $686 million in earnings was transferred to the general fund per legislative directive, yet the fund has since rebounded above $13 billion due to market gains and ongoing oil tax deposits. The Legacy Fund, approved by voters in 2010, receives 30% of all oil and gas production and extraction tax revenue.
Anderson highlighted the fund’s diversified allocation, noting that “more colors on that wheel means… more diversification.” The current allocation closely mirrors the policy target, demonstrating effective rebalancing. Global public equity leads at $6.9 billion, followed by global fixed income ($3.748 billion), diversified real assets ($470 million), cash equivalents ($781 million), and an early-stage private equity sleeve ($52 million).
Anderson said performance has been good: over 10 years, the fund returned 7.1% versus a 6.4% benchmark, beating it by 70 basis points, enough for top-quartile ranking per consultants. Shorter periods also outperformed: 8.3% vs. 7.3% (5-year), 10.6% vs. 9.6% (3-year), and 12.7% vs. 12.1% (1-year through June 2025).
Legislators peppered Anderson with questions about the allocations. Sen. Brad Bekkedahl asked why in-state investments (3.6% or ~$470 million) weren’t separately listed. Anderson clarified that they’re embedded in diversified real assets but pledged to provide breakout details in a future report. Rep. Glenn Bosch confirmed the $781 million cash balance pre-transfer reflected earnings buildup for the July 1 payout.
Chairman Jonathan Warrey noted the fund’s post-transfer recovery above $13 billion. Anderson affirmed that the outperformance includes returns on in-state investments.
The McKenzie County Board of Commissioners has approved a $500,000 contribution to sponsor the nursing wing in Williston State College’s new Healthcare Training Facility — a $37 million project set for completion in November.
The facility will expand educational opportunities in the region, allowing WSC to launch new programs in Phlebotomy, Certified Medical Assisting (CMA), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training this spring, with additional programs planned in the future.
County leaders say the investment reflects their commitment to strengthening the local healthcare workforce and retaining homegrown talent. “Two-thirds of Watford City High School graduates who go to college attend Williston State,” said WSC President Dr. Bernell Hirning. “This partnership helps ensure those students have access to the training needed to serve their own communities.”
The sponsorship includes naming rights for a portion of the nursing wing, along with recognition in the facility’s lobby and on the college’s website.
Commissioners said the funding is a strategic investment in both education and regional healthcare infrastructure, helping to meet increasing demand for skilled professionals across western North Dakota.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright has directed the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to initiate rulemaking procedures to accelerate the interconnection of large-scale energy loads, such as data centers, to bolster U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) and domestic manufacturing.
In a separate directive, Wright ordered FERC to propose a rule removing unnecessary burdens for preliminary hydroelectric power permits, clarifying that third parties cannot veto such permits.
The first directive aims to address the surging energy demands of data centers critical to AI innovation and the revitalization of U.S. manufacturing. By streamlining interconnection processes, the Department of Energy seeks to reduce delays and ensure reliable power access for the high-demand facilities. The move comes as the U.S. competes globally to maintain technological and industrial dominance, with data centers requiring significant energy to support advanced computing.
Wright emphasized the urgency of the initiative.
“The United States must lead in AI innovation and the revitalization of domestic manufacturing, both of which depend on rapid and reliable access to electricity,” he wrote. “Accelerating the interconnection of large loads, like data centers, is critical to meeting these national priorities.”
The second directive focuses on simplifying the approval process for preliminary hydroelectric power permits. Wright’s proposed rule clarifies that third parties, such as environmental groups or local stakeholders, do not have veto power over these permits, aiming to reduce regulatory hurdles and expedite hydropower development.
“Hydropower remains a cornerstone of our clean energy future, and unnecessary delays in permitting hinder our ability to harness its potential,” Wright wrote in the letter. “By removing unwarranted third-party vetoes, we can responsibly accelerate the development of this vital resource.”
Both proposed rules will undergo FERC’s rulemaking process, including public comment periods, before finalization. The directives reflect the Trump administration’s push to balance energy innovation with environmental responsibility, positioning the U.S. to meet growing electricity demands while advancing sustainable power solutions.
The North Dakota Department of Commerce’s Community Development and Rural Prosperity (CDRP) team is hosting two upcoming Community Chats webinars aimed at helping local leaders, nonprofits, and organizations to strengthen rural communities through development opportunities and housing solutions.
The first session, “Rural Catalyst Grant Program,” will be held Monday, Oct. 27, from 1 to 2 p.m. CST via Microsoft Teams. This new reimbursable grant supports projects that boost quality of life and economic growth in rural areas. Participants will learn about eligible projects, funding and match requirements, key deadlines, and how to build strong proposals.
Speakers include Anya Hondel, Community Development Coordinator, and Nicolette Blumler, Grant Administrator, both with the Department of Commerce. The session is open to political subdivisions, Tribal entities, regional councils, local partners, business owners, and organizations interested in community development or revitalization.
The second session, “Overcoming Barriers & Building Housing in Rural ND,” is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 4, from 1 to 2 p.m. CST, also on Microsoft Teams. It will focus on practical strategies for addressing rural housing challenges, featuring Lisa Rotvold, executive director of the Red River Community Housing Development Organization.
Rotvold will share lessons from the northeast region of North Dakota, including real-world solutions for small towns, common barriers to housing growth, and best practices that can be adapted statewide.
Both webinars are free and open to anyone interested in supporting rural community development.
While talk of a colder and snowier winter circulates across North Dakota, State Climatologist Daryl Ritchison says the reality may be less extreme, even if it doesn’t feel that way.
“I actually think this winter could be very average in terms of snow and temperature,” Ritchison said. “But the perception might be that it’s worse, simply because we’ve had two fairly mild winters in a row.”
Ritchison explained that this winter is expected to be influenced by a weak La Niña, a climate pattern characterized by cooler-than-average ocean temperatures in the Pacific. Contrary to popular belief, weak La Niñas don’t always guarantee frigid, snowy winters.
Instead of focusing on averages, Ritchison says he looks at analog years -- past winters with similar global climate signals. This year, in addition to the La Niña, he’s factoring in the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole, two lesser-known oceanic patterns. Together, they suggest a high probability of average, or even slightly warmer, conditions across parts of the state.But snowfall timing will play a key role because snow cover reflects sunlight and holds in the cold.
Western North Dakota could actually see warmer conditions than last year, when some areas along the Montana border were four to five degrees below average. The NDAWN station at Hofflund in Williams County dropped to -47°F, tying the weather network's low temperature record.
Asked whether North Dakota’s climate has changed over the long term, Ritchison emphasized the difficulty of comparing today’s weather data to the past. He said one brutally cold, snowy winter can skew the average, making it difficult to spot any trend.
And as for old-school forecasting methods like wooly caterpillars or the Old Farmer’s Almanac?
“They have great recipes,” Ritchison quipped. “But the forecasts are so vague, they can’t really be right or wrong, which is kind of the point.”
For now, he advises North Dakotans to prepare for a typical winter, but be ready for it to *feel* much harsher than it really is.
U.S. households that rely on natural gas for heating can expect stable and affordable energy costs this winter, according to the American Gas Association’s 2025–26 Winter Heating Outlook.
The report highlights strong natural gas production and storage levels heading into the colder months, with increased demand anticipated, particularly in the Midwest. The AGA notes that natural gas continues to supply more than one-third of the nation’s total energy needs.
Households using natural gas for heat are expected to spend about $867 on average this winter, representing approximately 1.1% of total household expenses. Compared to homes using electricity, natural gas customers are projected to save about $415 when adjusted for home size and climate.
“As temperatures drop this winter, American families can depend on natural gas as the cost-effective and reliable energy option,” the AGA said. “Natural gas continues to provide essential energy for heating, cooking and powering homes across the country.”
The association also pointed to robust infrastructure readiness, with natural gas storage levels above the five-year average and dispatch capacity significantly exceeding that of electric power storage. Additionally, the natural gas rig count has increased by 18% this year, while oil rig activity has declined.
While overall prices remain lower than in previous years, the report cautions that colder-than-normal weather could lead to increased consumption. “A colder-than-average winter means customers may consume more natural gas this year to heat their homes, but prices remain 10 percent lower than they were a few years ago,” said Richard Meyer, AGA vice president of energy markets, analysis and standards.
Despite the potential for higher usage, the AGA emphasized that natural gas remains one of the most affordable and reliable heating sources available to U.S. consumers.
A new hub for community learning and connection has opened its doors in the small town of Halliday: the Halliday Public Library.
Housed in the former high school building, the library is largely the result of the efforts of local resident and new director Katlyn Baker, who spearheaded the project from vision to reality.
The building once belonged to the former Halliday Public School District, which closed in 2013 due to low enrollment following the district’s consolidation with nearby Killdeer. The city purchased the building with a goal of converting it for community use. Baker saw that opportunity and got to work.
“After touring the former Halliday Public School and seeing the school library dark and quiet, I had a vision to bring it back to life,” she wrote in a welcome letter on the library’s website. “Getting the project on the election ballot was the first step in making that happen.”
Baker and her family spent the summer of 2024 gathering petition signatures to put the measure on the ballot. Voters approved it, and Baker moved ahead with renovations and collecting materials in preparation for the library’s opening this month.
The library’s mission, Baker says, is to “provide a warm, welcoming environment for the community to bring people together, inspire creativity … and encourage a lifelong love of learning and reading through a wide variety of reliable, easily accessible, and continually evolving services.”
Located inside the former school building, the facility includes a study/work room, a children’s playroom with a STEM wall and Montessori play area, beanbag reading nooks, a large meeting table and other inviting spaces designed for users of all ages. The collection features physical and audio books, DVDs, board games, puzzles and STEM kits.
Free Wi-Fi and computer access are available, with printing and copying services already in place and faxing planned soon. Events for all ages, from story time and teen game nights to adult book clubs, are on the schedule. Baker encouraged community members to suggest hours and programs that best meet their needs.
“My goal is to be the welcoming heart of the community, where our patrons come to learn and connect,” Baker wrote in her letter.
The new Halliday Public Library promises to do just that, turning a long-dark school facility into a bright gathering place for the town.
Amtrak has completed accessibility improvements at two western North Dakota stations along its Empire Builder route, part of a $30 million federal investment aimed at making train travel safer and more available for passengers with disabilities.
The upgrades at Stanley and Williston, both historic depots built by the Great Northern Railway, enhance boarding platforms, pathways and signage to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. The work, funded under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is among similar enhancements at three other stations in the state: Devils Lake, Fargo and Rugby.
At Stanley's 1922 depot, a $400,000 project added a new accessible path connecting the station building to a designated parking area. Workers repaired and replaced detectable warning strips on the existing platform to prevent slips and falls, and installed additional signage for clearer navigation. The station's interior was refreshed with modern touches, improving comfort for the twice-daily stops between Seattle or Portland and Chicago.
"These targeted updates ensure that every rider, regardless of mobility, can board with confidence," said Amtrak VP of Accessibility Dr. David Handera.
Williston's 1910 station, noted for its historical significance by state preservation officials, received a more extensive $10 million overhaul. A new 700-foot concrete boarding platform with a brick finish now links directly to accessible paths and a fresh parking zone. The platform features a snowmelt system to combat harsh winters, sloped walkways with railings and egress gates, energy-efficient LED lighting for full coverage, and upgraded detectable warnings and signage.
Amtrak officials hailed the local involvement, with North Dakota subcontractors handling much of the labor. At Stanley, firms including American Engineering Testing of Williston and Benchmark Land Surveying of Sidney, Montana, contributed expertise.
For passengers, the changes mean fewer barriers, literally. At Williston, the snowmelt system addresses a common complaint in the winter months, where icy platforms have long posed risks. Stanley's modest upgrade eases access for elderly visitors and families in the region.
The North Dakota Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the Special Road Fund (SRF) program.
SRF projects are limited to roads that provide access to and within recreational, tourist, and historical areas. The intent of the program is to help finance highway projects identified by political subdivisions, tribal governments and state agencies which typically have some funding, but need additional assistance.
“The Special Roads Fund is a great opportunity to help improve access roads to and within tourist, historical, and public recreational areas,” said NDDOT Director Ron Henke. “We encourage counties, cities, state agencies, and tribal governments to apply, and to share this program with other agencies within their jurisdictions such as park boards, historical societies, and townships.”
This year, funding is increased to an 80/20 split and a maximum of $500,000 SRF dollars per project.Applications for projects planned for construction in 2026 or 2027 must be submitted by November 30.
It's anticipated the Special Road Fund Advisory Committee will meet in early 2026 to review the applications and select projects for funding.
The North Dakota Department of Transportation is seeking public input to develop the Statewide Coordinated Public Transit-Human Services Transportation Plan and the first North Dakota Intercity Bus Plan.
The plans will identify mobility needs and opportunities for improvement, especially for older adults, people with disabilities, and residents in rural communities. They also fulfill federal planning requirements that allow North Dakota to access funding to support transportation services across the state.
“We invite you to participate in one of eight regional workshops, where you can share your insights and priorities,” said Becky Hanson, NDDOT transit program manager. “The workshop will focus on mobility challenges for people in your region, gaps in service, challenges to coordination, actions that could be implemented by local agencies and organizations within the region, and the needs for intercity services or connections to more distant places.”
Each workshop will include a presentation of the purposes of the study followed by a facilitated discussion.
Scheduled meetings in western North Dakota include:
Meetings will also be held in Bismarck, Devils Lake, Fargo, Grand Forks and Valley City.
The weather this past week featured a wide swing in temperatures. Highs generally started in the 50s and low 60s, reaching as high as 66°F or 63°F in the earlier part of the week, but gradually cooled. Towards the end of the week, daily high temperatures dropped into the 30s to 50s, with lows dipping to the mid-20s. Conditions were mostly dry, though fog was noted on one day. Photos from Wise Roads cameras are updated continuously throughout the daylight hours on the Wise Roads web page.
The Wise Roads project (Weather Information System to Effectively Reduce Oilfield Delays and Disruptions) was developed by WDEA to increase the efficiency of the movement of oilfield truck traffic. Most weather stations were placed in the core area of Bakken production, focusing on Dunn, McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams Counties. The project provides more accurate weather information to county road managers, especially about rain events, to minimize the need to impose weight restrictions when gravel roads get wet. It was developed in partnership with NDAWN, which maintains the stations for WDEA. The project was also assisted with a $250,000 grant from the Oil & Gas Research Council.
Fifty new stations have been installed, 39 of which are located in the four core oil-producing counties. Prior to the start of the project, Dunn and McKenzie Counties had just one station each, Mountrail County had three and Williams County had four. Weather station data and high-resolution photos can be found at wiseroadsnd.com. There is also an interactive Google Map that users can access to pinpoint the location of Wise Roads and NDAWN weather stations. Additional information is also available from NDAWN.
Featured shots this week are clockwise from upper left: Antelope are captured traversing a field at Pyramid Park, while white tail are high tailing across an Alexander field. A truck makes its way down the road in Fairfield, while the Northern Lights appear in the early am in Maxbass. Click on the link for a high-resolution image.
Gov. Kelly Armstrong has appointed Levi Bachmeier as North Dakota's next Superintendent of Public Instruction, selecting a native son with deep roots in the state's education system to lead the department.
Bachmeier, 35, currently serves as business manager for the West Fargo School District and brings a diverse background of classroom teaching, education policy, and administrative experience to the role. He will succeed Kirsten Baesler, who was recently confirmed as an assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education.
"I'm a very proud product of our K-12 system," Bachmeier told reporters at Wednesday's announcement. "I am incredibly confident that it can be even better."
A West Fargo native and graduate, Bachmeier earned an education degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. He previously taught high school social studies with Teach for America and was a policy fellow with the US Department of Education. He also served as an education policy advisor for former Gov. Doug Burgum.
Armstrong praised Bachmeier's comprehensive understanding of education, highlighting his experience on multiple state education boards and his commitment to improving student outcomes.
Bachmeier emphasized a non-partisan approach to education, stating that he will focus on what's best for students regardless of political affiliation. He plans to visit as many of the state's 168 school districts as possible, adopting a "listen to learn" leadership strategy.
Bachmeier will officially assume the role upon Baesler's resignation, with the exact date still to be determined due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. However, once he assumes the role, Bachmeier will serve until the November 2026 general election. He has immediately resigned from his current positions on the State Board of Higher Education and other educational boards to focus on the superintendent role.
Baesler expressed confidence in Bachmeier's ability to lead, praising his commitment to advancing education and his experience in the field.
As a parent of two young daughters, Bachmeier said his personal mission is to ensure every child in North Dakota receives an excellent education.
North Dakota oil production held firm in August, posting 35.75 million barrels, or about 1.15 million barrels per day, according to the latest _Director’s Cut_ from the Department of Mineral Resources. The figure is slightly below July’s output by roughly 10,000 barrels per day but remains above the state’s revenue forecast.
Gas production averaged 3.55 billion cubic feet per day, marking a modest dip from the previous month. McKenzie County once again led the state with 11.1 million barrels produced, followed by Williams, Mountrail, and Divide counties, together accounting for more than 96% of total output.
DMR Director Nathan Anderson noted during his opening statement that the department has received two applications under the new development well incentive program established under SB 2397, which seeks to encourage new wells to be drilled using “new and innovative drilling techniques”. Chord Energy will drill the wells, with Anderson expecting two more operators to submit applications in the coming months.
North Dakota’s rig count remained steady at 28, part of 548 operating across the U.S., with 43% in Texas. The Williston Basin accounted for 30 rigs, including two in Montana. Anderson said the consistency reflects a balanced response to price swings and operational efficiency gains.
Prices hovered around $62 per barrel in August, while North Dakota crude averaged $58.08. The market saw volatility driven by global oversupply and new tariffs on Russian companies. Gas prices at Henry Hub were around $3.30 per MMBtu.
Producers continued to make strides in gas management, increasing statewide capture to 95.4%. Anderson credited both operators and midstream companies for pursuing “aggressive, responsible” gas handling targets.
The state issued 95 drilling permits in September, maintaining a consistent pace over the summer months. Well completions dipped slightly, with 56 in September compared to 88 in August. The total well count stands at 19,606, with about 2,200 inactive.
Longer-lateral drilling remains on the rise, with more than 1,200 three- and four-mile permits approved to date. Cycle times are improving, averaging 115 days from spud to stimulation.
Pipeline data show a small decline in oil shipments offset by increased rail traffic to refineries in the Pacific Northwest, where demand for light, sweet Bakken crude remains strong.
Despite price fluctuations and global uncertainty, Anderson said the state’s fundamentals remain solid: “We’re holding steady, capturing more gas, and operating efficiently.”
North Dakota's vast Bakken oilfields could soon yield another treasure: lithium, the battery metal fueling the technology revolution.
The Renewable Energy Council on Tuesday recommended approving a $500,000 grant to Wellspring Hydro, a company aiming to commercialize extracting lithium from the millions of gallons of salty produced water generated daily by oilfield operations.
The grant, if finalized by the North Dakota Industrial Commission on Oct. 27, would propel Wellspring's modular direct lithium extraction technology from field trials to full-scale production. Chief Operating Officer Mat Hirst described the project's potential to tap up to 50,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent annually, enough to rival major U.S. projects and address a glaring domestic shortfall in critical minerals.
The Bakken's produced water currently burdens producers with disposal costs and environmental concerns. Wellspring's process uses proprietary ion-exchange media to selectively pull lithium from the brine, leaving the water largely unchanged for reinjection into disposal wells. Hirst said field trials in June and July near Killdeer demonstrated striking efficiency: up to 99% lithium removal in runs lasting as little as 15 minutes, with averages exceeding 95% across multiple tests.
He highlighted the sustainability edge over traditional lithium mining, which guzzles freshwater in arid regions.
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