All North Dakota Forest Service News

May 1, 2026

New Champion Trees Crowned in 2025

State Forester Thomas Claeys is pleased to announce that thirteen new champion trees and two new second place champions have been added to the North Dakota Register of Champion Trees. The purpose of the champion tree contest is to engage the public in forestry activities and instill a desire to protect and preserve these magnificent trees for future generations.

A large river birch tree planted in a golf course green.
April 29, 2026

North Dakota National Guard support operations strengthen North Dakota’s wildland fire program

The North Dakota Forest Service announces the successful conclusion of the spring 2026 wildfire support operations provided by the North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) to strengthen North Dakota’s wildland fire program. Over the course of this mission, NDNG personnel played a valuable role in enhancing fire response readiness, increasing operational capacity, and supporting proactive land management efforts. Their contributions were focused across three key areas: fire preparedness and response; training; and hazardous fuels mitigation.

Wildland firefighters use chainsaws to fell and cut up ponderosa pine trees in a forest.
April 27, 2026

Prevent Chemical Damage to Woody Plants This Growing Season

Spring has sprung, and as many North Dakotans begin their yard work, now is the time to review the chemical control options for lawns. Many weeds that homeowners want to control are broadleaf plants, but it’s important to keep in mind that woody landscape plants are also broadleaf plants. Some herbicide options may have some unintended negative consequences to our trees and shrubs. Please

A spruce tree damaged by herbicide drift, showing twisted and brown needles.
January 27, 2026

Emerald ash borer detected in Fargo

This week, an insect larva found in the City of Fargo by city forestry staff has been confirmed to be emerald ash borer. This is the second finding in North Dakota. The first detection was in LaMoure County in August 2024.

Emerald ash borer on the bark of a tree
December 3, 2025

Cooperative Fire Protection Assistance Grants Available

The North Dakota Forest Service is currently accepting applications for the Cooperative Fire Protection Assistance program. Grant funds will be available for the purposes of enhancing fire protection and prevention capabilities of North Dakota’s rural fire departments.

A fire truck and a UTV are parked outside of a fire department
October 31, 2025

Sheyenne National Grassland to begin prescribed fires

Sheyenne National Grassland is planning prescribed fire operations this month, pending all required approvals. This work may begin as soon as Thursday, October 9 and continue until November 1 or as favorable conditions exist. The USDA Forest Service uses prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Flames burning up wheat stalk in a harvested field
September 29, 2025

Unified Command Receives "Roaming Bison" at 2025 Governor's Awards for Excellence for Collaboration During October 2024 Wildfires

Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden today presented the 2025 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Public Service, recognizing teams across state government for their exceptional efforts to serve citizens and meet a variety of challenges. This year’s awards recognized team efforts, both within individual agencies and among agencies inside and outside of state government. More than 300 nominations were submitted by state employees.

A group of people smile while holding an award