Legislative candidates received a first-hand look at the lignite and petroleum industries during a Legislative Candidate Bus Tour on Aug. 17-18.

Stops included a drilling rig and gas plant in oil country, the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation Interpretive Center in New Town and mining operations, environmental controls and land reclamation areas at Coal Creek Station and the Falkirk Mine near Underwood.

The participants also learned about the industries’ impacts on North Dakota’s economy, workforce and tax revenue.

“I found the tour and the workforce we met to be absolutely fascinating,” said Lori VanWinkle, District 3 Republican candidate from Minot. “I witnessed facilities that are run very well, are very clean, particular about safety and intent on keeping the process free from polluting our air, water and soil. The work crew in these locations take great pride in understanding their job and truly respect their career and its importance.”

Jason Bohrer, president and CEO of the Lignite Energy Council, said, “By hosting legislative candidates, we are helping them learn about the industries and the technologies shaping the future.”

Ron Ness, president of the Petroleum Council, echoed those sentiments.

“The oil and gas industry has evolved over the years and the exploration and production technologies used today are unique to the Bakken. More than ever, the coal and oil industries’ futures are dependent upon new innovations and technologies that will make developing our natural resources more efficient,” he said.