Balancing Our Wetlands Heritage and Our Future
A unique private, nonprofit corporation, the Natural Resources Trust, Inc. balances wetlands conservation and management in North Dakota with the interests and values of our landowners, citizens, and communities. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1986 under the Garrison Diversion Reformulation Act, the Trust was directed to "preserve, restore, manage and enhance wetlands and associated habitat, grassland conservation and riparian areas in the state of North Dakota." To ensure its success, Congress authorized $25 million in federal and state funding. Only the interest earned can be spent; the fund's principal must remain untouched thereby ensuring the longevity of the Natural Resources Trust. Recent legislation, The Dakota Water Resources Act of 2000, has changed the North Dakota Wetlands Trust name to the North Dakota Natural Resources Trust, expanded our mission to grassland conservation and riparian areas, and increased the federal funding.
Citizen-Directed
The six-member Natural Resources Trust Board is directed by concerned citizens who are knowledgeable about North Dakota's wetland and agricultural issues. The Trust's Board is responsible for establishing the vision and policies that guide the Trust. The Trust's executive director and staff carry out the day-to-day operations of the Trust.
Innovative Projects
Recognizing that the majority of remaining wetlands in North Dakota are under private ownership and drawing upon its diverse knowledge and resources, the Trust's Board of Directors uses innovative approaches to wetlands protection, restoration, and enhancement.
The Trust can acquire land, purchase conservation easements, and develop various wetland conservation projects. It can bring together private landowners and conservation agencies in cooperative projects. It can plan and produce educational forums so all residents of our state may understand the crucial roles wetlands play in North Dakota.
Partnership Through Projects
The Natural Resources Trust strives to form effective partnerships with agencies, organizations, and landowners to sustain wetland conservation and management. Because the need for wetland protection is great, these efforts must be coordinated with other wetland conservation partners.
The Trust can act as a granting organization which fosters partnerships to improve the quality and quantity of wetlands in North Dakota. The Trust also will attempt to maximize the use of matching grants to extend its financial resources.
To receive a copy of grant guidelines, or to request a project partnership proposal form, write:
Natural Resources Trust
1605 E. Capitol Avenue, Suite 101
Bismarck, ND 58501-2102
Phone: (701) 223-8501
FAX: (701) 223-6937
E-Mail: ndwtlinda@btigate.com
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