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North Dakota is a state known for its natural beauty, with vast landscapes of grasslands, badlands, and lakes.
Various individuals and companies own its land, but some stand out.
In this article, we will discuss the top 10 landowners in North Dakota and their impact on the state's economy and environment.
Top Landowners In North Dakota
| Landowners | Total Acres |
|---|---|
| 1. The Federal Government | 6,300,000 |
| 2. The State of North Dakota | 2,600,000 |
| 3. The School Lands Trust | 700,000 |
| 4. The Olson Family | 400,000 |
| 5. The Gage Family | 330,000 |
| 6. The Kelso Family | 300,000 |
| 7. The Zinke Family | 200,000 |
| 8. The Whitney Family | 150,000 |
| 9. The Beulah Syndicate | 130,000 |
| 10. The Haakenson Family | 110,000 |
1. The Federal Government
The federal government is the largest landowner in North Dakota, with over 6.3 million acres of land. This includes national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and military bases.
The government's presence in North Dakota has positive impacts on the state, such as job creation.
2. The State of North Dakota
North Dakota is the second-largest landowner in the state, with over 2.6 million acres of land, including state parks, wildlife management areas, and other conservation areas.
The state's ownership of this land has helped preserve the state's natural beauty and wildlife.
3. The School Lands Trust
The School Lands Trust, administered by the North Dakota Department of Trust Lands, owns over 700,000 acres.
The trust was established in 1889 to generate revenue for the state's public schools, and the land is leased to farmers and ranchers for grazing and agricultural purposes.
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4. The Olson Family
The Olson family, based in North Dakota, owns over 400,000 acres of land in the state.
They are involved in agriculture, oil and gas, and real estate. Their presence in North Dakota has brought economic benefits to the state, particularly in rural areas.
5. The Gage Family
The Gage family, based in Texas, owns over 330,000 acres of land in North Dakota.
They are involved in oil and gas exploration, ranching, and other industries. The family's presence in North Dakota has significantly impacted the state's energy industry and economy.
6. The Kelso Family
Based in California, the Kelso family owns over 300,000 acres of land in North Dakota.
7. The Zinke Family
The Zinke family, based in Montana, owns over 200,000 acres of land in North Dakota.
They are involved in agriculture, real estate, and other industries. Their presence in North Dakota has brought economic benefits to the state, particularly in rural areas.
8. The Whitney Family
Based in North Dakota, the Whitney family owns over 150,000 acres of land in the state.
9. The Beulah Syndicate
The Beulah Syndicate, a group of investors based in North Dakota, owns over 130,000 acres of land in the state.
10. The Haakenson Family
Based in North Dakota, the Haakenson family owns over 100,000 acres of land in the state.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these are the top 10 landowners in North Dakota, each with their unique impact on the state's economy and environment.