How Can Declining Rural Communities in North Dakota Be Saved?
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Abstract
Rural North Dakota has become somewhat of an abandoned
land. There are dozens of small communities, with major
service gaps and unsustainable populations. With the death of
each rural town, the state loses pieces of its history, as unique cultures,
and buildings decay alongside the highways. Witnessing these townships
fall into despair, going unused with years of embodied energy wasted, has
partly inspired this investigation. Why didn't these towns survive? Are all of
North Dakota's small rural communities destined to meet the same fate?
Exploring the possibility of reviving historically declining rural towns
would not only breathe new life into the state, but also respond to modern
challenges. This research aims to identify a program for successful rural revitalization in North Dakota. Socioeconomic policies and facility updates and additions will inform best practices for the prosperity
of rural towns looking to attract residents, businesses, and opportunities.