In this episode, we look at how shifting U.S. tariffs are impacting North Dakota’s farmers and agricultural businesses. As new tariffs take effect, especially those on imports from Canada and China, farmers are seeing increased equipment costs, delayed deliveries, and growing uncertainty about future trade relationships.

Michael breaks down what’s happening on the ground, including insight from soybean growers, ag suppliers, and business owners caught in the crosshairs. The discussion touches on fertilizer price hikes, disappearing orders from China, and how ripple effects from global trade decisions are being felt across rural communities and supply chains.

Key Topics:

• The impact of July 31st tariff announcements on ag imports
• North Dakota soybean exports and the stalled China trade relationship
• Fertilizer prices and Canada’s key role in U.S. ag input supplies
• Rising equipment costs from tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper
• Why rural communities feel the shockwaves from global trade
• The urgent need for certainty in agriculture policy and planning

Related Links & Resources:

• Article: North Dakota Farmers & Ag Businesses Brace for Tariff Blowback by Michael Standaert

In this episode of The Backstory, host Sabrina Halvorson is joined by reporter Michael Standaert to explore a forward-thinking agricultural initiative in North Dakota: using rotational grazing practices to capture and store carbon in soil. Michael breaks down the science of carbon credits and the economics of carbon markets, sharing insights from his reporting and interviews with researchers and ranchers like Louis Heaton.

They dive into how ranchers are trialing sustainable land management techniques that not only sequester carbon but also improve biodiversity, cattle health, and even bee productivity. Learn how these practices could lead to certification opportunities (like bird-friendly beef), revenue through carbon credits, and broader ecological benefits—all while navigating the complex and evolving voluntary carbon market.

Topics Covered:

• Pilot projects in North Dakota led by researcher Rebecca Phillips
• Economic challenges and opportunities in the carbon credit market
• Co-benefits for ranchers: healthier cattle, improved biodiversity, and certification potential
• The future of sustainable ranching and environmental economics

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Article: Projects Demonstrate Carbon Capture Ranchers Can Get Behind Read on the website

Federal cost-cutting measures are putting some North Dakota senior programs at risk. In this episode of The Backstory, hosts Sabrina Halvorson and Michael Standaert discuss Michael’s recent reporting on the uncertainty facing Senior Companions programs due to AmeriCorps funding delays. With more than 375 volunteers helping isolated older adults across 53 counties, the potential loss of this support could have a profound impact—not just on those receiving care, but on the low-income senior volunteers who rely on modest stipends.

Michael shares how he uncovered the story, what it means for communities statewide, and the often-hidden role federal programs play in everyday lives. Plus, the team reflects on the importance of listener tips in surfacing critical local stories.

🎧 Tune in for insight on:

• What’s happening with AmeriCorps and how it affects North Dakota

• Who depends on Senior Companions programs—and why

• The ripple effects of federal funding gaps on vulnerable populations

• Behind-the-scenes of how journalists investigate underreported issues

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Read the full article: "Federal cost-cutting imperils North Dakota senior programs"

• Learn more about the AmeriCorps Seniors programs: https://americorps.gov

💬 Got a tip or story idea? Reach out to the North Dakota News Cooperative: info@newscoopnd.org