In January 2003, the first North Dakota Nature Tourism Conference was held at the Marketplace for Entrepreneurs event. The event drew over 100 people and the overwhelming consensus was to continue the development of North Dakota’s potential in nature and rural tourism. With the help of Kathleen Tweeten (North Dakota State University Extension Service) and Maria Effertz-Hanson (Garrison Diversion) the organizing process began with drafting bylaws and membership structures.

In 2004 at the 2nd Annual Nature Conference, held again at Marketplace for Entrepreneurs, the draft bylaws were adopted and a planning committee was established. Throughout this time, a variety of communities were hosting Rural and Alternative Enterprises conferences, forming regional tourism associations and exploring the opportunities for expanding rural tourism businesses.

In 2005, with a solid foundation to grow on, the North Dakota Nature & Rural Tourism Association took wings and, with the help of the North Dakota Tourism office, North Dakota Rural Electric Cooperatives, Marketplace for Entrepreneurs, Garrison Diversion, North Dakota Farmers Union, USDA Resource Conservation & Development, and regional tourism groups has grown to be a recognized association for North Dakota’s rural and nature tourism future.

Maria Effertz Hanson and Marty Anderson, acting co-chairpersons, have been instrumental in maintaining the growth and development of this organization. They have traveled extensively in the state promoting the association and nature tourism in North Dakota. The future of the association lies in the dedication of individuals that are willing to take a risk and help North Dakota become recognized as the premier destination for nature and rural tourism experiences.

Please join the ND Nature & Rural Tourism Association as we create a network of people and families that believe in the future of our state.