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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 […]

March 17, 2026 by

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. […]

March 3, 2026 by

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 […]

March 2, 2026 by

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 […]

February 25, 2026 by

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 […]

February 20, 2026 by

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, […]

February 3, 2026 by

Economic Development Welcomes New Director

In January, McKenzie County Economic Development welcomed Meghan Taunton into her new position as director. Taunton grew up in California and moved to Williston in 2012 during the height of the oil boom. She spent time working in the oil industry before attending Williston State College and the University of North Dakota to obtain a […]

February 2, 2026 by

January 2026 Economy at a Glance

The January 2025 Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include: Watford City Sales Tax Distributions are up 17.5% for 2025 compared to 2024 distribution, with Alexander up a significant 67% from 2024 to 2025 While visits to Theodore Roosevelt National Park are up slightly over the past year, visits in December 2025 […]

January 29, 2026 by

Exploring Career Pathways at The Bakken Area Skills Center | Living in McKenzie County: Season 2, Episode 10

The latest episode of the “Living in McKenzie County” podcast offers a fascinating look into the career pathways available at the Bakken Area Skills Center. Host Vawnita Best delves into the center’s essential role in shaping the future workforce of McKenzie County, showcasing programs that range from heavy equipment operation to healthcare. The episode begins […]

January 20, 2026 by

Get in Touch

Meghan Taunton
McKenzie County Economic Development
100 2nd Ave SW, Suite A
Watford City, ND 58854
701-444-8856
mtaunton@co.mckenzie.nd.us

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