GRASSROOTS IN MERCER COUNTY: UNPACKING THE REALITY OF HYPERSCALE DATA CENTERS
In this episode, DRC Rural Energy and Data Center Organizer Ishauna Jacobberger sits down with Mercer County resident and retired educator Linette Irwin to discuss the massive data center developments proposed in central North Dakota. Linette shares how she and a dedicated group of neighbors formed Mercer County Concerned Citizens to dig into public records, map lease options, and uncover the true scale of proposed projects in their backyard. Together, they talk through the reality of 1.7-gigawatt facilities, the pressure on local farmland and infrastructure, the ongoing fight for meaningful zoning setbacks, and what it takes to build grassroots power across rural communities. Whether you are navigating new energy developments in your own county or looking to get involved at the local level, Linette offers practical insights on finding your voice, showing up to public meetings, and protecting the rural way of life for the next generation. Listen HERE.
DRC’s MISSION & IMPACT
Since 2018, 
has led the Dakota Resource Council (DRC) in its fight for North Dakota’s land, water, and communities. In this episode, host Sean Arithson, DRC Communications Coordinator and Deputy Director, sits down with Scott to discuss the history of DRC, how it empowers local voices against corporate and government overreach, and its role in shaping policies that protect farmers, ranchers, and the environment. From coal mining reform to tackling oil and gas issues, Scott shares insights into DRC’s biggest challenges, victories, and what’s next for grassroots advocacy in North Dakota. Watch HERE.
FIGHTING FOR FAMILY FARMS
In this episode of the Dakota Resource Council P
odcast, host Sean Arithson sits down with former North Dakota Legislator April Fairfield. April shares her deep-rooted connection to rural North Dakota, growing up on her grandparents’ farm near Jamestown and carrying on their legacy of land stewardship. She discusses her early impressions of DRC’s grassroots advocacy and how its tenacious, bottom-up approach convinced her it was the real deal. From defending North Dakota’s anti-corporate farming law to taking on corporate giants like Monsanto, April highlights key victories that have shaped the state’s agricultural policies. Watch HERE.
Fighting for North Dakota
DRC Communications Coordinator and Deputy Director catches up with Don Morrison, former Executive Director of DRC (2012–2018). Don reflects on the organization’s deep roots in grassroots organizing, from pushing for responsible oil regulations to safeguarding farmland and ranching communities across North Dakota. Watch HERE.
Empowering Native Voices
In this episode of the Dakota Resource Council Podcast, we sit down with Nicole Donaghy, Executive Director of North Dakota Native Vote, to discuss the challenges and opportunities Indigenous communities face in North Dakota. From her early days as a field organizer with DRC to leading advocacy efforts on voting rights and environmental justice, Nicole shares her journey and the vital role of grassroots organizing in creating systemic change. Tune in to hear how community organizing empowers Native voices, the ongoing fight against corporate and governmental overreach, and how you can get involved in shaping a fairer, more sustainable future. Watch HERE.