Water is life in North Dakota — for agriculture, for communities, and for the generations building the state’s future. That’s why the Dakota Mornings Podcast dedicated a full episode to the conversations happening at the 2025 Joint North Dakota Water Convention, featuring leaders who understand the complexities, challenges, and opportunities shaping the region’s water landscape.
One of the standout voices in this episode is Spence (Spencer) Parkinson, President and CEO of Decision Innovation Solutions. Known for blending economic insight with real-world agricultural experience, Spence brought a grounded, articulate perspective to the discussion — including a memorable reflection on his early mornings and long days milking cows, an upbringing that shaped how he sees responsibility, stewardship, and the realities producers face every day.
A Full Slate of Water Leaders, A Conversation That Matters
Hosted by Michael Spence, this December 11, 2025 episode (36 minutes) continues a series recorded live at the convention. The show opens with updates and reflections from:
- Jeff Frith, Manager of the Devils Lake Basin Joint Water Resource Board and Devils Lake Basin Commissioner
- Jeff Gooss, Founder of Wheelchairs and Walleyes, discussing community-driven environmental initiatives
Their conversations set the stage for the larger questions on water management, basin planning, and the ripple effects water has on every sector of the state.
Later in the episode, Michael is joined by:
- Steve Hansen, President of the North Dakota Irrigation Association and James River Basin Commissioner
- Spence Parkinson, President & CEO, Decision Innovation Solutions
Together, they dive deep into the future of irrigation, economic impact forecasting, and the priorities North Dakota must consider as climate, policy, and demand continue to evolve.
Spence Parkinson’s Perspective: Data Meets Dirt Under the Fingernails
One of the most refreshing parts of the discussion is how effortlessly Spence connects economic modeling with firsthand agricultural experience. He talks about irrigation not just in terms of charts and projections but through the lens of someone who knows what long days on the farm really look like — including those early mornings milking cows before the sun came up.
That grounded perspective gives weight to every insight he shares, especially when discussing:
- How producers make decisions when margins are tight
- Why irrigation investment is both a local and statewide economic engine
- The long-term implications of water allocation and infrastructure decisions
- The importance of clear communication between policymakers, producers, and community partners
He makes one thing clear: economic impact isn’t theoretical. It shows up in the fields, in the communities that rely on agricultural success, and in the long-term stability of the state’s water-dependent industries.
What’s Ahead for North Dakota’s Water Future
The conversation ends on a forward-looking note, centered on:
- Sustainable water management
- Infrastructure priorities amid shifting climate considerations
- Growth opportunities for irrigators and rural communities
- The role of data-driven decision-making in shaping statewide policy
Spence emphasizes that strong water planning isn’t just beneficial — it’s essential. And North Dakota is in a moment where smart strategy today can protect livelihoods for decades to come.
A Must-Listen Episode for Anyone Who Cares About Water, Agriculture, or Economic Development
This episode of Dakota Mornings captures the perfect blend of expertise, storytelling, and big-picture thinking. Whether you work in agriculture, policy, economic development, or simply care about the future of North Dakota, the conversation provides meaningful insight — delivered with clarity, humility, and even a few farm-life anecdotes that remind us where true wisdom is born.
Spence Parkinson shines as a leader who understands both the economics and the everyday realities behind water decisions, making this episode one of the most compelling in the series.
Listen to the full conversation — and get a deeper look at the people shaping North Dakota’s water future.
