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13 Sep 2024
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North Dakota
United States
12:20:48 AM
21 Nov 2024

North Dakota Info

Abbreviation:
ND
State capital:
Bismarck
Population:
800,000
Largest city:
Fargo (130,000)
State bird:
Western Meadowlark
State flower:
Wild Prairie Rose
State tree:
American Elm

Local facts

  • North Dakota is divided between two time zones. The eastern part of the state, including cities like Fargo, uses Central Time (CT). The western part of the state, including cities like Bismarck and Williston, uses Mountain Time (MT).
  • North Dakota observes Daylight Saving Time.
  • North Dakota’s Central Time Zone is 1 hour behind Eastern Time (ET). For example, when it is 12:00 PM in Fargo, it is 1:00 PM in New York.
  • The Central Time Zone in North Dakota is shared with states like Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri, while the Mountain Time Zone is shared with states like Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.
  • Major industries:

    Agriculture: Agriculture is a key sector, with the state being a leading producer of wheat, barley, and canola. Livestock and dairy are also important parts of the economy.

    Energy: Known for its oil and natural gas production, particularly in the Bakken Formation, the energy industry contributes significantly to the economy.

    Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector includes food processing, machinery, and equipment production, supporting the agricultural and energy sectors.

    Tourism: Attractions like Theodore Roosevelt National Park and scenic Badlands bring tourism income, with visitors coming for outdoor recreation and historical sites.

    Technology: The technology sector is growing, with initiatives to support tech startups and digital infrastructure in urban centers.

  • Local trivia and geography:

    Geography: Known for its wide open plains and rugged Badlands, North Dakota is bordered by Canada to the north, with significant river systems like the Missouri River running through the state.

    Trivia: The state is home to the geographical center of North America, marked in the town of Rugby.

    Natural Attractions: Highlights include Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the International Peace Garden, located on the U.S.-Canada border.

  • Cultural insights:

    Ranching Heritage: Ranching and cowboy culture are prominent, reflecting the state's agricultural roots and open landscapes.

    Native American Influence: The state has a rich Native American history and is home to multiple tribal nations, with cultural celebrations like powwows held throughout the year.

    Festivals: Events like the Medora Musical and Norsk Høstfest in Minot, which celebrates Scandinavian heritage, are popular cultural attractions.

    Local Cuisine: Known for dishes with Scandinavian influences, like lefse and lutefisk, along with Midwestern favorites such as bison and wild game.

  • Historical context:

    Native American History: The area has been inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Dakota, and Mandan, who have a long and rich history in the region.

    Lewis and Clark Expedition: The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through North Dakota in the early 1800s, marking a significant chapter in American westward exploration.

    Settlement and Statehood: Settlers arrived in large numbers in the late 1800s, with North Dakota achieving statehood in 1889, alongside South Dakota.

    Modern Development: In recent years, the state's economy has transformed with the growth of the oil and natural gas industries, making it one of the top energy producers in the U.S.