All North Dakota Forest Service News

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
September 19, 2025

Excellence in Forestry Honored at 2025 Trees Bowl

Fourteen "Trees Award" winners from across the state were recognized at the 35th Trees Bowl and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. The Trees Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and agencies who contribute in an outstanding way to forestry activities.

A group of people smiling
May 21, 2025

Growing Communities with Tree City USA

A city that takes care of its trees takes care of its people. Since 1976, the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program has recognized and supported the cities and leaders who create places to play, room to breathe, and beauty on every block.

Young trees planted in a park with a playground in the background