County of mckenzie

History & Founding

Located in the western region of North Dakota, this county embodies the spirit of the American West. Established in 1910, it was carved from Billings County, reflecting the burgeoning population and economic activity spurred by the Great Northern Railway’s expansion. The name honors John Mackenzie, a Scottish fur trader and explorer who traversed the region in the 1880s. Mackenzie's expeditions documented the area's resources and potential, contributing to the subsequent settlement. Initially, ranching and small-scale farming were the primary occupations. An interesting anecdote from the early days recounts a fierce blizzard in 1916 that trapped several families for weeks, highlighting the challenges of frontier life and the importance of community resilience. The county's growth has been intrinsically linked to the state's broader agricultural and resource development, experiencing periods of boom and bust tied to commodity prices and resource discoveries.

Geography & Landscape

The county sprawls across 2,742 square miles, occupying a landscape dominated by rolling prairie and badlands. Situated within the Missouri Plateau, the terrain transitions from relatively flat grasslands in the east to rugged, sculpted badlands in the west, particularly around the Little Missouri National Grassland. The Little Missouri River, a vital waterway, meanders through the western portion of the county, providing a source of irrigation and supporting riparian habitats. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures reaching the 80s, while winters are harsh, characterized by frigid temperatures and significant snowfall. The climate is semi-arid, receiving relatively low annual precipitation. Notable natural features include the distinctive rock formations of the badlands, offering dramatic vistas and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Economy & Communities

The county's economy has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent decades, largely fueled by the Bakken Formation oil boom. Watford City, the county seat, along with Dickinson and Killdeer, serve as the primary population centers. While agriculture, particularly cattle ranching and dryland farming, remains important, the oil and gas industry has become the dominant economic driver, attracting a large influx of workers and investment. Companies like Hess Corporation and Enerplus Resources are significant employers. The rapid growth has created a unique character to the area – predominantly rural with a strong work ethic and a palpable sense of opportunity, although also facing challenges associated with rapid population increases, infrastructure strain, and fluctuating commodity prices.

Points of Interest

Points of interest reflect the county's rich history and natural beauty. The Little Missouri National Grassland offers extensive hiking and horseback riding trails, showcasing the unique badlands landscape. The Watford City Pioneer Museum preserves the area’s agricultural heritage. The annual Dickinson County Fair provides a traditional celebration of rural life. Due to the oil boom, the county briefly held the distinction of having the highest per capita income in the United States, a testament to the economic opportunities it presents. While the boom has subsided from its peak, the county remains a dynamic and evolving region within North Dakota, embodying a blend of agricultural tradition and modern resource development.