North Dakota’s Largest Landowner Controls a Ridiculous 2.6 Million Acres

North Dakota is one of the least-visited states in the U.S. Yet those who do travel to visit know that this state has incredible scenery. It has amazingly diverse wildlife and plentiful natural resources. Not only that, but North Dakota has a rich cultural history thanks to the indigenous people who have lived there for centuries. Today, there are about 44.45 million acres that make up North Dakota. There are a few big cities. There are lots of small towns. Together, family and commercial farms, homes, and vast national and state parklands coexist in the remote state. This might make you wonder: Who controls most of the land in North Dakota?

It’s worth reading about the top four largest landowners in the state. However, this article focuses on just the entity that controls the most total acreage. Let’s jump in to learn about that together now!

Who Controls the Most Land in the State?

The true answer to who controls North Dakota’s land is far from straightforward. In reality, the majority of North Dakota’s land is privately-held farmland. These 38,548,498 acres of privately-held agricultural land represent a significant economic driver in North Dakota. They provide thousands of jobs. This farming includes the production of vital crops like honey, potatoes, flax, and more. This includes both large commercial farms and smaller family-owned farms.

However, if you want to know which single entity or individual controls the most acreage in North Dakota, that is a different answer. There are many different individuals who own this privately-held agricultural land. These people and businesses have ranches and farms. After private agriculture, the second-most amount of land in North Dakota is controlled by the North Dakota Department of Trust Lands.

The North Dakota Department of Trust Lands

In fact, the State Department of Trust Lands in North Dakota manages millions of acres across the state. With that huge number in mind, let’s learn a little about the Department’s history and responsibility.

History of the State Department of Trust Lands

In 1889, when Congress passed the Enabling Act, it gave land grants to the State of North Dakota. This occurred at the same time that North Dakota was admitted to the Union. Along with South Dakota, Montana, and Washington, North Dakota got granted land from the U.S. Federal Government. In all places, these land grants were meant to fund public education in perpetuity. 

The Department manages the land of public colleges and schools. This represents over 700,000 surface acres held in trust for schools and institutions! However, it has other responsibilities too.

The Responsibilities of the Department of Trust Lands

The main responsibility of the North Dakota Department of Trust Lands is to manage the permanent educational trust funds and assets under their control. The North Dakota State Constitution asserts this responsibility. However, in addition to this, North Dakota’s State law also gives the Department the responsibility of managing several funds and mineral acres. It is also responsible for operating North Dakota’s Unclaimed Property Division. Lastly, it operates the Energy Infrastructure and Impact Office.

Vision Statement

According to the Department website, there is a vision for the land. The “vision” statement of the Department of Trust Lands wants it to be “known nationally for superior management of its land and mineral assets, unclaimed property, energy grant distributions, and investment portfolio.”

The photo featured at the top of this post is © TobyG/Shutterstock.com