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. They discussed various initiatives, education programs, and events, both ongoing and upcoming, that aim to foster community engagement and sustainable land management in the region.

The discussion started with the intricacies of local and federal funding, explaining their collaborative efforts in promoting conservation through programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the district’s own soil health initiatives. They share how these programs are crucial for both large agricultural producers and new urban homesteaders aspiring to cultivate smaller plots of land. The complexity of funding was broken down by Nikki, who described the federal nature of NRCS funding and contrasted it with the district’s local revenue streams guided by the Soil Conservation District Board. Karissa highlighted the district’s focus on assisting with hardware like wells, tanks, and portable windbreaks to extend sustainable agricultural practices.

The conversation turned to community programming, notably the “Cowgirls and Conservation” event. This annual gathering has grown exponentially since its inception, now drawing in over 150 women. Daniel Stenberg then detailed the much-anticipated Prairie Roots Homesteading Summit, scheduled for May 15th and 16th at the McKenzie County Ag Expo. The summit invites newcomers and experienced homesteaders alike to participate a variety of informative sessions. Keynote speakers, Justin Rhodes and Tim and Sophia Eng, will offer insights on self-sufficiency ranging from cheese making to pork butchery. This summit is seen as a useful tool for those interested in enhancing their sustainable living practices, providing practical knowledge, and networking.

The conversation also covered extensive educational outreach initiatives led by the Soil Conservation District across McKenzie County schools. These programs aim to provide environmental stewardship from a young age by engaging students in hands-on learning about soil, water, and plant conservation. The district also engages adults through events like the Soil Summit and garden tours, bolstering the community’s grasp on practical conservation tactics.

Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

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, and community members who have shaped the rich sports history of Watford City.

The group focuses on the significance that sports and school activities can have, especially in a small-town community. During the episode, they also take a tour of Watford City High School athletics and activities through the years, and take a look at some of the key figures in each decade. They also share how, though the effort to digitize WCHS yearbooks, these stories for can be shared with younger generations, ensuring the legacy continues.

The importance of community involvement in the Hall of Fame’s selection process is outlined during the discussion, with Brad Foss emphasizes the collaborative nature of the Hall of Fame, encouraging residents to engage by nominating deserving graduates. You can visit the Watford City High School Hall of Fame interactive screen at the Rough Rider Center or check it out on online.

Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast, Dr. Wayne Heckaman, along with colleagues Scott Wisness, Anselmo Jr. Hernandez, and Justin Johnsrud, discussed the transformative power of the Bakken Area Skills Center (BASC). Over the past 24 months, the BASC has become a beacon for students in McKenzie County and surrounding areas, offering unique educational pathways in fields like automation and welding.

The key to BASC’s success lies in its strong partnerships with local industries. Junior Hernandez of ONEOK and Justin Johnsrud emphasize the importance of these collaborations in providing students with real-world experiences. This practical approach ensures students are ready for the workforce or further education. The center actively works to bridge the gap between academia and industry, incorporating vital feedback to keep its programs relevant. Scott Wisness highlights how the BASC also offers dual credit courses, allowing students to earn college credits while still in high school.

This discussion underlines the BASC’s role as a community cornerstone, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can empower students and invigorate local economic growth. The BASC remains committed to shaping the future workforce by providing students with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic industry landscape. For those interested in learning more, a visit to the their website offers further opportunities to engage and participate.

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

Join us in this special edition of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast as Vawnita Best sits down with Lynn Welker-Fevold, the president of the Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health.

In our engaging conversation, Lynn shares her passion for rural healthcare and the upcoming Giving Tuesday initiatives. This national day of giving is an opportunity for members of the McKenzie County community to contribute towards meaningful local projects, from the renovation of community spaces to important healthcare upgrades. Learn how you can participate and make a difference in your community’s healthcare landscape.

Lynn poignantly highlights four specific initiatives for Giving Tuesday, each designed to enhance the quality of life in McKenzie County. These include a new transportation vehicle for Good Shepherd Home and Horizon Assisted Living, a dining room expansion for better employee and guest interaction, patient support items for oncology patients, and the Grace Fund dedicated to supporting healthcare employees facing hardships. Each initiative represents a chance for the community to come together and support local causes, fostering a spirit of compassion and unity.

As we approach the end of the year, many of us reflect on the legacy we wish to leave behind. Vawnita and Lynn encourage us to consider where our charitable contributions go and how they can directly benefit our local community. Whether you’re participating in year-end tax planning or simply wish to give back, now’s the perfect moment to ensure your support stays local. Tune in to discover how McKenzie Health’s initiatives are building a stronger, more connected community, one generous gift at a time.

Donate to Giving Tuesday here.

Read The McKenzie Health 2025 Annual Report here.

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

In the latest episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” the spotlight is on a special guest, Cory Hepola, and his team from the “My Town” documentary series. The episode dives into the essence of rural living and showcases McKenzie County’s vibrant lifestyle.

Beginning with a hearty welcome from host Vawnita Best, listeners are brought into the warmth and charm of a community that offers much more than meets the eye. The conversations highlight the remarkable experiences Cory has had during his visit, including mountain biking adventures and participating in a local branding event, emphasizing the community spirit that defines small-town life.

Throughout the episode, Cory passionately discusses his mission to dispel common misconceptions about rural areas. By sharing authentic stories from small towns like Watford City, his series aims to depict the opportunities and unique qualities of rural communities.

The episode also covers the importance of foundational pillars like healthcare  and the innovative educational programs provided by McKenzie Health and Bakken Area Skills Center.

Cory’s observations of the independent spirit and collaborative efforts of the residents highlight the region’s encouraging environment for growth and development.

As the episode comes to a close, the focus turns to the positive impact this portrayal could have on both residents and outsiders. Through “My Town,” Cory hopes to inspire viewers to appreciate the beauty and potential of rural communities while motivating the curious ones to explore what life in these towns truly entails. By showcasing the vibrant community life, educational opportunities, and innovative spirit of McKenzie County, this episode of “My Town” serves as a love letter, encouraging pride among its residents and sparking curiosity in potential newcomers.

Watch My Town Watford City on YouTube:

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series hosted by City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best, along with a roster of occasional guest hosts. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.