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10 Famous Singers from North Dakota – Singersroom.com

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10 Famous Singers from North Dakota – Singersroom.com


North Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of music, but this seemingly unassuming state has produced its fair share of musical talent. From the vast plains and rolling hills of North Dakota have emerged some of the most celebrated voices in the music industry. In this article, we will delve into the lives and careers of the top 10 famous singers hailing from the Peace Garden State.

These singers have transcended geographical boundaries to captivate audiences worldwide with their remarkable talent and undeniable charisma. From country crooners to pop sensations, North Dakota has given birth to a diverse array of musical luminaries who have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Each of these artists brings a unique flavor to the musical landscape, showcasing the rich tapestry of talent that North Dakota has to offer. Through their soul-stirring lyrics and powerful performances, they have captured the hearts of millions and solidified their place in music history.

Join us on a journey through the lives and careers of these extraordinary individuals as we explore what sets them apart and makes them shine in the constellation of global music stars.

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1. Peggy Lee

Peggy Lee, a luminous gem in the realm of music, hails from North Dakota, etching her indelible mark as one of the state’s most beloved treasures. Born Norma Deloris Egstrom in Jamestown, North Dakota, on May 26, 1920, Peggy Lee’s transcendent talent and enchanting voice captivated audiences worldwide.

Her illustrious career spanned over six decades, adorned with accolades including Grammy Awards, Academy Award nominations, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Lee’s velvety contralto voice effortlessly traversed genres, from jazz to pop, leaving an enduring legacy through timeless classics like “Fever,” “Is That All There Is?,” and “Why Don’t You Do Right?”

Beyond her musical prowess, Lee’s charisma and stage presence captivated audiences, solidifying her status as an icon of elegance and sophistication. Her influence transcended generations, inspiring countless artists and earning her a place among the greatest singers of all time.

Peggy Lee’s enduring legacy continues to resonate, her songs weaving through the fabric of American culture. Her journey from the plains of North Dakota to the pinnacles of global stardom is a testament to the transformative power of talent, perseverance, and passion.

2. Lawrence Welk

Lawrence Welk, a legendary figure in the world of music and entertainment, proudly claims North Dakota as his birthplace. Born on March 11, 1903, in the small farming community of Strasburg, Welk’s humble beginnings laid the foundation for an illustrious career that would span generations.

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Welk’s signature “champagne music” captivated audiences worldwide, earning him a place in the pantheon of American music icons. His eponymous television program, “The Lawrence Welk Show,” became a beloved staple of American television for over three decades, showcasing his infectious charm, wholesome demeanor, and unparalleled musical talent.

With his accordion in hand, Welk led his orchestra through a repertoire of timeless classics and contemporary hits, enchanting audiences with his warm personality and magnetic stage presence. His dedication to showcasing a diverse array of musical styles, from polka to pop, endeared him to audiences of all ages.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Welk’s legacy endures as a symbol of the American Dream, embodying the values of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. His contributions to music and television have left an indelible mark on popular culture, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.

3. Bobby Vee

Bobby Vee, born Robert Thomas Velline on April 30, 1943, in Fargo, North Dakota, emerged as one of the most popular singers of the 1960s, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of rock and pop music. Despite his humble beginnings in the Midwest, Vee skyrocketed to fame with his irresistible charm, velvety voice, and undeniable talent.

His breakout hit, “Take Good Care of My Baby,” catapulted him to stardom in 1961, igniting a string of chart-topping singles that captivated audiences around the world. Vee’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners, earning him a devoted fan base and cementing his status as a teen idol.

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Throughout his career, Vee showcased his versatility as a performer, seamlessly transitioning between rockabilly, pop, and ballads with effortless grace. His magnetic stage presence and infectious energy electrified audiences, making him a sought-after headliner on tours across the globe.

Despite facing personal tragedies and challenges, including the loss of his wife, Vee’s passion for music never waned. He continued to record and perform, leaving behind a timeless legacy of hits that continue to inspire and uplift listeners to this day.

Bobby Vee’s enduring influence on the world of music remains unparalleled, his songs serving as a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the enduring spirit of rock and roll.

4. Jonny Lang

Jonny Lang, a prodigious talent born on January 29, 1981, in Fargo, North Dakota, emerged as one of the most electrifying blues and gospel musicians of his generation. From a young age, Lang’s soulful voice and virtuosic guitar playing captured the attention of audiences and critics alike, propelling him to stardom.

His debut album, “Lie to Me,” released when he was just 15 years old, showcased Lang’s astonishing vocal range and mastery of the blues genre. Songs like the title track and “Breakin’ Me” catapulted him into the spotlight, earning him critical acclaim and a fervent fan base.

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With each subsequent album, Lang continued to push the boundaries of his musical prowess, seamlessly blending elements of rock, gospel, and soul into his distinctive sound. His dynamic live performances, characterized by searing guitar solos and impassioned vocals, solidified his reputation as a consummate performer.

Despite his youth, Lang’s lyrics reflected a depth and maturity beyond his years, exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption with raw honesty and vulnerability. His authenticity resonated with audiences, earning him a devoted following around the world.

Jonny Lang’s enduring legacy as a pioneer of modern blues music is a testament to his unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. With each note he plays and every lyric he sings, Lang continues to inspire and uplift listeners, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

5. Josh Duhamel

Josh Duhamel, though not primarily known as a singer, is a prominent figure hailing from Minot, North Dakota, who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Born on November 14, 1972, Duhamel rose to fame as a model before transitioning into acting, where he garnered widespread acclaim for his versatile performances on both the small and big screens.

While Duhamel’s talents primarily lie in acting, his North Dakotan roots have undoubtedly influenced his career trajectory and personal identity. Throughout his career, Duhamel has remained deeply connected to his hometown, often citing his upbringing in the Midwest as a formative influence on his character and values.

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As an actor, Duhamel has showcased his range and charisma in a diverse array of roles, from romantic comedies to action-packed blockbusters. His roles in projects such as “Transformers,” “Las Vegas,” and “Safe Haven” have solidified his status as a beloved and recognizable figure in Hollywood.

Beyond his on-screen endeavors, Duhamel has also been actively involved in philanthropy and charitable causes, using his platform to raise awareness and support for issues close to his heart. His commitment to giving back reflects his Midwestern upbringing and values, embodying the spirit of compassion and community that defines North Dakota.

While Josh Duhamel may not be a singer in the traditional sense, his contributions to the entertainment industry and his enduring connection to his North Dakotan roots make him a beloved figure in his home state and beyond.

6. Jan Garber

Jan Garber, a luminary in the realm of big band music, proudly hailed from Indiana, but his contributions to the world of music reached far and wide, captivating audiences across the nation, including those in North Dakota. Born on November 5, 1894, in Indianapolis, Garber’s musical journey began at an early age, eventually leading him to become one of the most celebrated bandleaders of his time.

Garber’s orchestra, renowned for its smooth melodies and distinctive sound, became a mainstay on the airwaves and in ballrooms throughout the United States during the 1920s and 1930s. With hits like “Baby Face” and “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” Garber’s music became synonymous with the carefree spirit of the Jazz Age, earning him a devoted following and widespread acclaim.

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Despite facing challenges during the Great Depression and changing musical tastes in the post-war era, Garber’s orchestra continued to thrive, adapting to new styles and trends while retaining its timeless appeal. Garber’s enduring legacy as a bandleader and musician is a testament to his unparalleled talent, innovative spirit, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

While Jan Garber’s connection to North Dakota may not be as prominent as some of the state’s native sons and daughters, his music undoubtedly left an indelible mark on audiences throughout the region, serving as a source of joy, inspiration, and nostalgia for generations to come.

7. Ann Cole Lowe

Ann Cole Lowe, a trailblazing fashion designer, may not have been a singer, but her impact on the world of fashion resonates far and wide, including in North Dakota. Born on December 14, 1898, in Clayton, Alabama, Lowe’s journey to becoming one of the most renowned couturiers of her time was marked by perseverance, talent, and a pioneering spirit.

Lowe’s designs graced the pages of high-fashion magazines and adorned the elite of society, earning her a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Her most notable achievement came in 1953 when she was commissioned to design Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress for her marriage to John F. Kennedy, a feat that solidified her status as a fashion icon.

Despite facing discrimination and adversity as an African American woman in the predominantly white world of fashion, Lowe remained undeterred, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of designers. Her commitment to excellence and dedication to her craft serve as an inspiration to aspiring artists and designers around the world.

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While Ann Cole Lowe’s ties to North Dakota may not be widely known, her influence on the world of fashion transcends geographic boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions with courage and determination.

8. The White Stripes

The White Stripes, a dynamic duo that revolutionized the modern rock scene, originated from Detroit, Michigan, but their electrifying music resonated with audiences worldwide, including those in North Dakota. Comprising Jack White and Meg White (who claimed to be siblings but were actually divorced), The White Stripes burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s with their raw, garage rock sound and minimalist aesthetic.

Jack White’s blistering guitar riffs and primal vocals, combined with Meg White’s primal drumming, created a distinctive and exhilarating sound that captured the essence of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. Hits like “Seven Nation Army” and “Fell in Love with a Girl” propelled the band to international fame, earning them critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Despite their simple instrumentation and stripped-down approach, The White Stripes’ music was imbued with depth and complexity, drawing inspiration from blues, punk, and folk traditions. Their willingness to experiment and push boundaries set them apart from their peers, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential rock bands of the 21st century.

While The White Stripes may not have had a direct connection to North Dakota, their music undoubtedly left an impression on audiences throughout the state, inspiring countless musicians and fans with their unbridled energy and uncompromising creativity.

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9. 4th Ave

4th Ave, a contemporary boy band that emerged from the eleventh season of the television show “The X Factor,” captured the hearts of audiences across the nation, including in North Dakota. Comprising members Mikey Jimenez, Camry Jackson, Jaden Gray, and Marcus Pendleton, 4th Ave showcased their exceptional vocal harmonies, charismatic stage presence, and infectious energy throughout their journey on the show and beyond.

Following their time on “The X Factor,” 4th Ave embarked on a meteoric rise, releasing original music and captivating audiences with their soulful performances and dynamic choreography. Their debut single “XOXO” garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing their versatility and potential as a rising force in the music industry.

Despite their young age, the members of 4th Ave demonstrated maturity and professionalism beyond their years, earning them a devoted fan base and recognition as one of the most promising boy bands of their generation. With each new release, they continue to push the boundaries of their artistry, forging a path to success on their own terms.

While 4th Ave may not have a direct connection to North Dakota, their music undoubtedly resonates with audiences throughout the state and beyond, inspiring fans with their infectious enthusiasm and undeniable talent. As they continue to evolve and grow as artists, 4th Ave remains poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.

10. Chuck Suchy

Chuck Suchy, a singer-songwriter and folk musician, is a cherished figure in North Dakota’s music scene, known for his heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and deep connection to the Midwestern landscape. Born and raised in Mandan, North Dakota, Suchy’s music reflects the spirit of the plains, drawing inspiration from the beauty and simplicity of rural life.

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With his rich baritone voice and masterful guitar playing, Suchy has crafted a vast repertoire of songs that celebrate the joys and challenges of life on the prairie. His music weaves together themes of love, family, nature, and the passage of time, resonating with listeners who appreciate authenticity and sincerity.

Throughout his career, Suchy has released numerous albums, earning acclaim from critics and audiences alike for his evocative storytelling and timeless melodies. Songs like “Dakota Breezes,” “Goodnight From the Plains,” and “On the Prairie” have become anthems for those who cherish the unique culture and landscape of the Great Plains.

Beyond his music, Suchy is also a respected advocate for rural communities and environmental conservation, using his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting the Midwest. His commitment to preserving the heritage and natural beauty of the region shines through in his lyrics, embodying the spirit of stewardship and resilience that defines North Dakota.

Chuck Suchy’s enduring legacy as a musician and storyteller is a testament to his deep love for his home state and its people. Through his music, he continues to inspire and uplift audiences, reminding us of the timeless beauty and boundless spirit of the Great Plains.



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North Dakota

North Dakota bill would allow children to live with mothers in prisons

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North Dakota bill would allow children to live with mothers in prisons


BISMARCK — A North Dakota bill could allow children to temporarily live with their mothers in prison.

The North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has requested legislation that would let children reside at the Heart River Correctional Center in Mandan with their mothers.

Senate Bill 2115

would let the DOCR hire staff and develop policy to achieve that goal.

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The bill also would prevent the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and its staff from being held liable for any injuries to the children unless “the injury is affirmatively caused by the negligent act of a state employee.”

Mothers would be responsible for their children, including medical expenses, DOCR Director Colby Braun told The Forum. Medical care would have to be sought outside the facility, he said.

The Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to work on the bill — a hearing for SB 2115 is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15.

The legislation is focused on mothers who come to Heart River while pregnant, Braun said. If a woman births her child while in custody, SB 2115 would allow the mother and baby to stay together for some time after birth, he said, adding that doing so provides better outcomes for families.

“What we’re trying to do is really support the goal of … making sure that we’re keeping good contact with mom and their children prior to them leaving prison,” he said.

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The bill doesn’t limit the age of a child who could live with their mother in prison. That could allow children to spend time with their mothers over a short time period, such as a weekend, shortly before a woman is released from prison, Braun said.

The legislation would give children the opportunity to reconnect with mothers as they prepare to leave prison and return to their families, he said.

The bill doesn’t say how long a child could live in the prison. It’s unclear how much the change could cost the state, according to a fiscal note attached to the bill.

The DOCR is still working on the policy that would detail the logistics of allowing children to live in Heart River. For now, the bill only addresses liability and creates the authority to allow mothers to have their children with them in the prison.

Parental separation impacts

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Parental separation due to incarceration can have extreme effects on children, said Wanda Bertram, communication strategist for the

Prison Policy Initiative.

That includes lower educational performance in school, a higher likelihood that children end up in the foster care system and termination of parental rights, the nonprofit said.

“This is all documented to lead to a host of different negative factors in the child’s life,” Bertram told The Forum. “So, anything that can be done to mitigate that is a step in the right direction.”

The nonprofit that researches criminal justice reform has advocated for releasing incarcerated parents of young children, Bertram said. At least a dozen states have made laws addressing family separation.

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Sometimes called a nursery prison program, a small number of states allow children to temporarily live with their mothers in prisons.

South Dakota

allows incarcerated mothers to bond with their children for 30 months after the child’s birth.

Some states and the federal government have proximity laws, which set a maximum distance between the facility where a parent is incarcerated and where their children live.

Minnesota

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allows mothers who have been sentenced to prison to live at home with their children for up to a year after birth.

The DOCR hasn’t discussed releasing mothers from custody so they could care for children outside of prisons, Braun said.

States have been slow to adopt a program like North Dakota could because they don’t have the facilities to do so, Bertram said.

“Something like a prison nursery program involves a lot of investment in new infrastructure,” she said, noting increasing funds for the prison system can move slowly.

States also typically incarcerate a small number of women, she said. Of the 2,033 inmates who are incarcerated in North Dakota, 260, or 13%, are women, according to data from the DOCR.

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“When you’re talking about programs that involve building new infrastructure or allocating resources to new programs, and something that’s going to impact a quite small number of people, it’s understandable why movement on that would be slow,” Bertram said.

Allowing incarcerated mothers to keep their babies with them in North Dakota has been a topic of discussion for “a long time,” Braun said. North Dakota previously didn’t have the space to do it, he said.

“As we’re looking at a new women’s facility, … one of the goals that we had is being able to have a unit where mom and baby could be together,” he said.

Heart River and the Dakota Women’s Correctional and Rehabilitation Center in New England are North Dakota’s only female prisons. Until recently, the New England facility was the state’s only prison for women.

North Dakota plans to

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build a 260-bed women’s prison at Heart River

to replace the New England facility. The $161.2 million project was approved in 2023 and is expected to take three years to complete.





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Lawmakers advance bill to replace North Dakota drones made by foreign adversaries

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Lawmakers advance bill to replace North Dakota drones made by foreign adversaries


BISMARCK — Lawmakers unanimously advanced a bill aimed at replacing over 300 Chinese-made drones used by North Dakota agencies due to security concerns, though development of drone infrastructure in the bill drew scrutiny from lawmakers.

House Bill 1038

would create a $15 million program to replace all drones used by North Dakota agencies that do not comply with the

National Defense Authorization Act

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and the

American Security Drone Act of 2023.

In short, any drones that are manufactured in adversarial countries would be replaced.

For North Dakota, that would be 307 of the 353 drones — or 86.97% — used by state agencies, according to a survey administered by the North Dakota University System.

All 307 drones that would be replaced are from China, according to the survey, specifically from a company called DJI, according to bill sponsor Rep. Mike Nathe, R-Bismarck.

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During his testimony to the appropriations committee, Nathe said that DJI has roughly 90% of the hobby market, 70% of the industrial market and 80% of the first responder market in the U.S., something he said was “very disturbing” to him.

“Even if out of the 307 we have one of these that are bad, it’s worth doing,” Nathe said. “So, these drones are flying all over our state. They’re flying over our communities, our air bases, our missile sites, our oil fields and God knows if they’re collecting data and transmitting that. And that is not only a security risk for North Dakota but also for the country.”

Nathe said North Dakota agencies are using Chinese drones because they are cheap.

“Why do we have so many of these in our inventory? And we’re not the only state, every other state is – has as many of these as we do,” Nathe said. “And the answer is they’re cheap. Cheaper than U.S. stuff, and they’re easy to fly and they’re very consumer-friendly. And they are not just years ahead, they’re like generations ahead of the (U.S.) manufacturers.”

Despite this, he said he has not had any pushback from state agencies on the proposed bill.

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The program would be run by the Grand Forks-based

Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Test Site

. Under the proposed bill, the test site would find and pay for drones that could serve the same function of the Chinese drones currently used by agencies, then organize training on the new drones for agencies’ personnel and inspect and dispose of the Chinese-made drones.

Agencies would be able to continue using the drones they have until a replacement drone from a U.S. manufacturer or a manufacturer in a country friendly to the U.S. has been found by the test site, Nathe said.

Some members of the committee questioned how much it would cost to replace the current drones. Frank Mattis, director of UAS integration at Thales and newly minted chair of the

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North Dakota UAS Council

, said that it would likely cost more than $10,000 per drone to replace the current DJI drones used by state agencies.

Thales is a company partnered with the state and the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to develop the

Vantis

system. The system, simply put, is a radar system that tracks and identifies drones, which allows them to operate beyond the line of sight of pilots.

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The second part of HB 1038 would allocate $11 million to develop an FAA radar data enclave and engage in a first-of-its-kind one-year pathfinder program where the FAA would share radar data with Vantis that would extend the system’s reach over most of the state.

Northern Plains UAS Test Site Deputy Executive Director Erin Roesler said the system covers 3,000 square miles and with the FAA data would cover 56,000 square miles — an expansion that would cost the state $255 million to develop without the FAA’s assistance.

The hope, according to those in support of the bill, is that Vantis with the FAA’s data would become the guideline for a national drone infrastructure system.

According to Mattis, this would be the first time the FAA shared unfiltered radar data with an organization outside of the federal government.

The data is not classified as “top secret” or “secret,” Mattis said, but it does rise to a level of importance where it needs to be protected. The $11 million would pay for the training, screening of personnel, and physical and cybersecurity upgrades to the test site that would allow them to house and utilize the data.

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Several lawmakers on the committee questioned how and when the state would see a return on the $11 million investment in Vantis.

Roesler said that Vantis should be viewed as an infrastructure project and that its value comes from the opportunities it will create.

She said that state agencies and other drone operators must create their own often costly and redundant systems to operate drones the way Vantis allows for. Creating this shared-use infrastructure lowers the barrier for agencies and companies to use drones in new ways.

Rep. David Richter, R-Williston, told a story about a hospital in his part of the state using a drone to deliver medicine across Lake Sakakawea to a remote area as an example of the use of drone infrastructure.

“We build highways and then people use them,” Richter said. “We are building a highway and people will use it.”

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The bill was given a unanimous “do pass” recommendation by the committee and will be carried to the floor for a vote by Nathe.





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European potato company plans first U.S. production plant in North Dakota

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European potato company plans first U.S. production plant in North Dakota


Screen Capture: https://agristo.com/timeline

Agristo, a leading European producer of frozen potato products, is making big moves in North America. The company, founded in 1986, has chosen Grand Forks, North Dakota, as the site for its first U.S. production facility.

Agristo has been testing potato farming across the U.S. for years and found North Dakota to be the perfect fit. The state offers high-quality potato crops and a strong agricultural community.

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In a statement, Agristo said it believes those factors make it an ideal location for producing the company’s high-quality frozen potato products, including fries, hash browns, and more.

“Seeing strong potential in both potato supply and market growth in North America, Agristo is now ready to invest in its first production facility in the United States, focusing on high-quality products, innovation, and state-of-the-art technology.”

Agristo plans to invest up to $450 million to build a cutting-edge facility in Grand Forks. This project will create 300 to 350 direct jobs, giving a boost to the local economy.

Agristo is working closely with North Dakota officials to finalize the details of the project.

Negotiations for the plant are expected to wrap up by mid-2025.

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For more information about Agristo and its products, visit www.agristo.com.

Agristo’s headquarters are located in Belgium.



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