Spring Planting Season Brings Optimism to Local Farmers
By Maggie Bellows
Area farmers report successful spring planting despite concerns about late frost and fluctuating commodity prices affecting the 2021 growing season.
Most corn and soybean acres across McLean and Mercer counties were planted by mid-May, putting local farmers ahead of the state average for planting progress.
"The weather window opened up just right," said local farmer Tom Anderson. "We got the seed in the ground before the rains came, and the soil conditions were perfect."
Commodity prices for corn and soybeans remain strong compared to recent years, with corn futures hovering near $7 per bushel and soybeans approaching $15 per bushel.
The strong prices are attributed to increased demand from China and concerns about drought conditions in other major growing regions.
Local elevator manager Steve Krueger reports that farmers are optimistic but cautious about the season ahead, with many choosing to forward-contract only a portion of their expected harvest.
"Farmers learned to be careful after the price swings we've seen in recent years," Krueger said. "They're taking advantage of good prices but keeping their options open."
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture forecasts above-average yields for the region if weather conditions remain favorable through the growing season.
Recent rains have provided adequate soil moisture for crop emergence, though farmers remain watchful for potential flooding if heavy rains continue into June.
Dakota Access Pipeline Monitoring Continues
By Dennis Lowry
Environmental monitoring of the Dakota Access Pipeline continues as the controversial project remains operational despite ongoing legal challenges and court-ordered environmental review requirements.
The pipeline, which crosses under Lake Oahe just upstream from Mandan, has been a source of community concern since construction began in 2016.
Last month, the Army Corps of Engineers announced it would allow the pipeline to continue operating while conducting a comprehensive environmental impact statement, following federal court rulings that found the original environmental review inadequate.
"The decision to keep oil flowing while conducting the review is disappointing," said environmental activist Tom Anderson. "We believe the pipeline should be shut down during the review process to protect our water supply."
The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and other tribal nations continue their legal efforts to permanently shut down the pipeline, arguing that it threatens their water supply and sacred sites.
Environmental groups are closely monitoring the Army Corps' environmental review process, which is expected to take approximately 13 months to complete.
The controversy stems from a 2020 federal court ruling that the Army Corps violated environmental law by approving the pipeline's Lake Oahe crossing without adequate environmental analysis.
Local organizations remain committed to ensuring Missouri River water quality protection and meaningful tribal consultation in future pipeline decisions.
COVID-19 Impacts Linger in Rural Communities
By Dr. Patricia Helms
Rural McLean and Mercer counties continue to grapple with COVID-19's impact as vaccination rates slowly climb and communities work through the ongoing challenges.
The Beulah Medical Center reports steady progress in vaccination efforts, with 43% of McLean County residents having received at least one dose as of Monday.
"We're seeing more acceptance as people understand the vaccine's importance," said Dr. Sarah Mitchell, chief medical officer. "Recent cases have reminded many folks that COVID is still a serious threat."
Rural isolation, which initially seemed protective, has created challenges for accessing healthcare and vaccines, particularly for elderly residents on remote farms.
The county health department continues mobile vaccination clinics, visiting rural communities twice weekly through the summer months.
Economic impacts persist as well, with several local businesses still operating at reduced capacity due to staffing shortages and supply chain disruptions.
The annual McLean County Fair, scheduled for July, will proceed with modified activities and enhanced safety protocols.
Mental health services have expanded through telehealth options, addressing increased demand for counseling services during the pandemic.
