McKenzie County population tops 15,000 in latest estimate

McKenzie County has a population of 15,024 according to the US Census's 2019 population estimate for counties.That represents 11% growth from the estimate released for 2018 and a 134% increase from 2010. Estimates for US cities are expected in June.
April Economy at a Glance

The April Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note:

  • 2020 year to date (January-March) sales tax distributions for Alexander is over $40,000 more than it was for the same period in 2019.

  • 2020 year to date (January-March) building permit values for Watford City are about $500,000 higher than they were for the same period in 2019.
Leadership training available

With the challenges facing our local community due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Calli Thorne of Pioneering Legac y will be offering group sessions on Leading Through Crisis. As a certified member of the John Maxwell team, she is offering a 4 week course covering:
  • practical ways to maneuver through times of difficulty and adversity
  • how to effectively battle distractions during times of crisis and stress
  • to adopt successful thinking habits to think your way through any crisis

One virtual group 4 week class is set to begin on Tuesday, April 14 at 8:30pm Central Time. It costs $149/person. To learn more or inquire about private training view this document.
COVID-19 business resources

As area businesses have been busy applying for federal relief from COVID-19 impacts, the North Dakota Department of Commerce continues to provide updated resources for businesses and employers. Financial, labor, insurance, tax and safety information can all be found on their website. They also host a weekly call in coordination with the Greater North Dakota Chamber to provide updates. The next call will be on April 16 at 11am CT.
Unemployment claims grow

From March 8 through April 4, 2020 a total of 686 unemployment insurance claims have been filed with Job Service North Dakota for workers from McKenzie County employers. While labor force numbers for March 2020 won't be released until next month, February 2020 labor force numbers for McKenzie County still show a nearly all time high of 10,267.
2020 US Census underway

Americans and McKenzie County residents are responding to the 2020 US Census. But due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the US Census is adjusting some of the "in the field" activities. Regardless, the internet remains the easiest way for most folks to respond. -->

You don't need a Census ID! Just click " If you do not have a Census ID, click here "
Use your physical address or follow the steps to provide descriptive information about where you live. The Census can also be completed by the mailer that is delivered to each home's residential address or by calling 844-330-2020.


Drilling rigs in McKenzie County

McKenzie County remains the county with the most active drilling rigs in North Dakota. While the April 14 rig count of 34 is considerably fewer than last year's count of 63, 15 of those rigs are drilling in McKenzie County. All but one drilling rig is operating in the 4 core counties of Dunn, McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams.