Dakota Resource Council

About Us

Formed in 1978, Dakota Resource Council grew out of existing organizing efforts responding to impacts from coal development. Each year brings new threats to our members and their communities. Local residents often have to play defense when it comes to rapid energy and agriculture policies and infrastructure. But – they have power when they come together as a community.

Responsible development requires local short-term and long-term concerns from constituents to be taken into account when decisions are being made. We owe it to our neighbors, our communities, and our future generations to protect our state’s resources and local voices.

DRC works with communities across the state to organize around common goals of securing a thriving  North Dakota and putting people first. Members take action to create public awareness and shape public policy to ensure safe and responsible development, to protect North Dakota’s agricultural economy, and to establish a foundation for a just transition to a diverse energy economy.

What We Believe

DRC believes that power comes from the bottom up and that our voices are stronger when we stand together. Our members are the experts of their lives and experiences and their concerns guide how we take action. As a non-partisan, grassroots organization, we bring together people who strive to have local voices heard, hold decision makers accountable and advocate for responsible development of resources without damaging North Dakotans’ lives and livelihoods.

DRC's Mission

DRC’s mission is to promote sustainable use of North Dakota’s natural resources and family-owned and operated agriculture by building member-led local groups that empower people to influence the decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities.

DRC's Vision

DRC envisions a prosperous and healthy North Dakota based on respect for our land and our people, a healthy environment, a sustainable use of natural resources and fair markets.

Homegrown Prosperity

Our campaigns focus on building resilient communities that utilize local systems of agriculture and energy production. Local voices and local votes keep the power in the hands of North Dakotans.