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Signs of Spring: Golf Season & Sign Updates in Watford City | Living in McKenzie County: Season 2, Episode 16

In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, host Vawnita Best invites listeners to explore the vibrant community activities and projects happening as spring arrives and summer approaches. Joining her in the conversation are Tony Carmichael, Jake Walters, and Jesse Wellen, who each bring unique perspectives on the developments and events taking […]

March 2026 Economy at a Glance

The March 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: There were ten building permits with a total value of $1,122,000 in February 2026. This is a significant increase in value with February 2025 having seven permits worth $328,055. March occupancy for Brookledge Apartments in Watford City was down to 89% from […]

Planning McKenzie County’s Future: A Look at Capital Improvement Plans | Living in McKenzie County: Season 2, Episode 14

 In McKenzie County, the importance of infrastructure development to support economic sustainability and community growth cannot be overstated. As discussed in a recent episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast with host Vawnita Best; City Engineer, Justin Smith, and McKenzie County Engineering Director, Grace Demars. explain the collaborative efforts between the county and […]

NRCS and the Soil Conservation District | Living in McKenzie County: Season 2, Episode 13

In this episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, Host Vawnita Best sat down with the McKenzie County Soil Conservation District and the NRCS to explore the  conservation efforts within McKenzie County. Vawnita was joined by Nikki Darrington, NRCS District Conservationist, Daniel Stenberg, Soil Conservation Urban Conservationist, and Karissa Frick, Soil Conservation Business Manager. […]

Watford City and McKenzie County Partner with Retail Strategies

The City of Watford City and McKenzie County have commissioned the services of Retail Strategies, the leading national community development firm, to develop and execute a tailored retail expansion and recruitment plan. This partnership will support the desire for expansion of retail goods and services available in western North Dakota and eastern Montana. “Retail Strategies brings […]

February 2026 Economy at a Glance

The February 2026 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: The permit values for McKenzie County were up over $5 million from $7,152,274 in 2024 to $12,770,940 in 2025. The Farmers Price Paid Index 2011 Base increased over 10% from 141.5 to 153.5 from December 2024 to December 2025. The daily average […]

Development Loft 2025 Year in Review

The Long X Development Loft is proud to share the 2025 Year in Review, highlighting another year of growth, collaboration, and forward momentum across Watford City and McKenzie County. The report consists of a recap from the four organizations at the collaborative Development Loft at the Visitors Center in Watford City: Watford City Community and Business […]

From Past to Present: Watford City High School Hall of Fame | Living in McKenzie County: Season 2, Episode 11

In the latest episode of the “Living in McKenzie County Podcast,” host Vawnita Best chats with guests Phil Moen, Titus Stenberg, and Brad Foss in a discussion about the Watford City High School Hall of Fame, and a look back at the remarkable athletes WCHS has had over the decades. They recognize the athletes, coaches, […]