Resources
The latest happenings and opportunities from the state in a centralized location. Keep up to date with what is happening in Region 8!
Annual Report
In 2025, Roosevelt Custer saw some amazing things happen throughout the region. Take a look at highlights from the past year.
CEDS
This unified strategic plan activates all of the regions resources to common goals. With input from all eight counties it is a clear roadmap forward.
Housing
You’ll find these resources to be beneficial when looking for key information for North Dakota Region 8.
Regional Data
Learn what makes our region special. With key census data, industry and workforce insight, and community indicators you will be able to sell the natural wonders of Southwest North Dakota to a potential business or resident.
Other Resources
You’ll find these resources to be beneficial when looking for key information for North Dakota Region 8.
Regional Livestock Planning
Roosevelt Custer was awarded the Regional Livestock Development and Planning Grant. Each of our eight counties signed on to this project which allowed us to create a comprehensive plan for the entire region.
Region 8 Legislative Priorities
Take a look at our key priorities outlined for Region 8 for the upcoming legislative session.
Arena Leaders Program
The Arena Leaders Program is an eight-month, cohort-based leadership experience designed for individuals ready to step forward and make an impact.
Newsletters
The latest happenings and opportunities from the state in a centralized location. Keep up to date with what is happening in Region 8!
Annual Report
Take a look at our latest Annual Report featuring highlights from the past year.
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
Every five years the region is responsible for building a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. It serves as a plan of action for the next five years as well as being a platform for measuring progress towards completing set goals. The plan is created through the RCRC and follows Economic Development Administration (EDA) requirements.
Regional Livestock Planning
Roosevelt Custer received funding through the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Regional Livestock Development and Planning Grant, a program designed to support livestock development across the state. The initiative encourages counties and planning districts to collaborate on strategic planning efforts that remove barriers and create opportunities for livestock production.
All eight counties in Region 8 participated in the project, allowing for the development of a comprehensive regional livestock plan. The plan includes site analysis, zoning and infrastructure review, and strategic recommendations to support future investment in animal agriculture.
This collaborative efforts help ensure the region is prepared to attract and support livestock operations, from producers to processors, contributing to broader economic development goals throughout Southwest North Dakota.
The reports created by First District Association of Local Governments include:
- Methodology
- Results – Specific Locations and Specific Site Data
- Sample Policy
- North Dakota Century Code
Housing
This comprehensive document presents an array of programs and resources aimed at stimulating housing accessibility across North Dakota, with a particular focus on western North Dakota. The objective behind this resource is to offer community leaders a wealth of ideas to consider when they are exploring ways to create housing solutions in their respective communities.
The Vision West ND Housing Committee was initially established as an ad hoc committee with the primary goal of collaborating closely with the Vision West ND Board of Directors, the consortium, and the administration. The committee’s mission is to engage with various communities, community leaders, elected officials, the state of North Dakota, and other stakeholders involved in housing to facilitate the development of safe and affordable housing within the Vision West ND region
Region 8 Legislative Priorities
These legislative priorities have been carefully crafted based on input from area residents and stakeholders, including surveys, public meetings, the first State of Region 8 meeting in February 2024, and subsequent follow-up meetings. These initiatives represent the most pressing needs for Southwest North Dakota as the upcoming legislative session approaches. These priorities aim to address critical gaps in the region’s infrastructure, workforce, and economic development to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.
- Workforce
- Address housing shortages
- Address childcare shortages
- Expand resources for transportation and energy infrastructure
- Expand workforce development initiatives
- Rural Development
- Capacity for rural communities
- Regionalize and simplify state-run programs
- Infrastructure
- Fund school facility upgrades
- Enhance water infrastructure
- Industry
- Expand tourism potential
- Promote innovation and emerging industries
- Advance agriculture and local foods
Watch our State of Region 8 session that was held in February 2024.
Arena Leadership Program
The Arena Leaders Program is an eight-month, cohort-based leadership experience designed for individuals ready to step forward and make an impact. Through hands-on sessions, real-world discussions, and regional engagement, participants gain practical tools to lead effectively in their organizations, communities, and across the region. This program is built for communities focused on strengthening leadership capacity across southwest North Dakota while building meaningful connections between participants.
Arena Leaders is ideal for both emerging and established leaders who are passionate about strengthening their communities. Participants will leave the program with the skills and confidence to:
- Lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose
- Communicate effectively through challenges and change
- Collaborate across sectors to address community needs
- Understand regional systems, resources, and networks
- Engage in civic leadership and decision-making
- Develop and implement a real-world leadership action plan
Sponsorship Opportunities
Local businesses, development organizations, and community partners are encouraged to support the program by sponsoring participants.
Benefits of sponsorship:
- Invest in local leadership development
- Strengthen workforce retention and engagement
- Build long-term community capacity
- Gain recognition as a leadership development supporter
For further questions, please reach out to Andrea at 701.483.1241 or andrea@swnd.org.