Forward-Facing Sonar Debate: Anglers in North Dakota are split on new high-tech sonar that shows fish in real time—some say it boosts the catch, others worry it changes the sport and stresses fish populations. Fertilizer Supply Pressure: A U.S.-Iran memo hints the Strait of Hormuz could reopen, easing fertilizer bottlenecks that have hit North Dakota producers; meanwhile, a Grand Forks fertilizer plant proposal is getting renewed attention amid global nitrogen pressure. NDSU Livestock Research: North Dakota State University is expanding its swine program with a new facility for 600 hogs and a classroom, aiming to grow hands-on training and research for the state’s swine industry. Grid Reliability Funding: The Trump administration reinstated a $50 million grant tied to a major Minnesota Power transmission upgrade that reaches central North Dakota, framing it as a reliability and resiliency win. Wildfire Smoke Health Warning: The 2026 wildfire season is already burning far more acres than the 10-year average, driving unhealthy air quality across multiple states and raising health alarms. Invasive Zebra Mussels: Zebra mussels have been confirmed in Richland County’s Horseshoe Lake, adding to the region’s invasive-species pressure. Agriculture Permitting: Ward County planning commissioners recommended denying a feedlot permit after concerns tied to inconsistent animal-unit plans and questions raised by a carcass-disposal investigation. EPA Support for ND: EPA funding of $684,000 is headed to North Dakota agriculture and environmental agencies. Measles Update: CDC data shows measles spreading across 41 jurisdictions, with North Dakota listed among active areas. Bismarck Floodplain? Interior Secretary Doug Burgum highlighted federal land and minerals accounting in Washington, bringing North Dakota lessons to national policy.