North Dakota: Peace Garden State

North Dakota, one of the least populous states, is known for agriculture, oil boom (Bakken Formation), harsh winters, and friendly people. The state features vast prairies and strong Scandinavian heritage.

North Dakota's landscape is mostly flat prairie with rich soil. Bismarck is the capital. Fargo is the largest city. Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the Badlands offers dramatic landscapes. The state has more churches per capita than any other. Oil boom in western North Dakota brought rapid growth and workers to remote areas.

North Dakota's economy includes agriculture (wheat, soybeans, sugar beets), oil and gas, and coal. The state has lowest unemployment and strong fiscal position. Harsh winters with extreme cold test residents. Despite oil wealth, North Dakota maintains agricultural character. The state is politically conservative and has strong community values. Fargo (the film) put North Dakota accent on the map. Remote location and climate keep population small.