To celebrate 120 years of the Office of the State Engineer, we brought together several former State Engineers — and the current one — for an unscripted conversation about the work, the people, and the moments that shaped the agency. Part 1 covers everything from rural water expansion to major floods, funding changes, and how the role has evolved over time.

In this episode, we sit down with James Odermann, who was appointed to the North Dakota State Water Commission by Governor Doug Burgum in 2021. From the history of the Southwest Pipeline Project to the future of water management in North Dakota, James shares insights shaped by decades of local experience and public service.

Recorded earlier this summer, this extended conversation dives into how water has defined communities in the state's western region and what challenges lie ahead as we balance supply, quality, and growth.

In this episode, we interviewed DWR director, Reice Haace for an update on the work the agency is doing across the state, from infrastructure improvements to long term water planning and everything in between. So whether you're a policymaker, a local water user, or just curious about how water shapes life in North Dakota, you're in the right place.