District Election Results

The results are in from District elections to elect Commissioners to the NDWC board, and we are pleased to announce the leadership that will continue to guide our efforts across North Dakota and the region. These elections are a vital part of the Commission’s governance, ensuring that the voices of our producers are heard and represented at the highest level.

In District 3, we are proud to share that Jim Pellman, McClusky, has been re-elected. Jim’s continued dedication to our mission and his deep understanding of the challenges facing our local producers make him an invaluable asset to the board. At the national level, Pellman is currently Chairman of US Wheat Associates.

"As a wheat producer, we need to promote and support the grain we produce,” said Pellman. “For 2-cents per bushel we promote and offer technical support around the world as well as support the research so we can continue to have quality wheat that not only sells but sells at a premium.”

Similarly, in District 6, Aaron Kjelland, Park River, has also been re-elected. Aaron’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation remains a cornerstone of the commission’s strategic vision moving forward.

“It is so important to raise your hand and serve on these commodity boards to keep our state’s wheat industry competitive,” said Kjelland. “The Commission’s work in research and market development is more critical than ever, and I am eager to build on our progress to ensure a profitable future for North Dakota farmers.”

In District 2, we have a new face and are excited about the fresh perspective and insight Parker Gates, Mohall, will bring to the board.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Commissioners and protect the hard work of our producers at home and abroad,” said Gates. “I look forward to diving into our research and domestic initiatives to ensure the unique needs of our local producers are voiced as we look to the future.”

We want to extend our sincere appreciation to Nate Brandt for his time and dedication to the board. We truly appreciate his willingness to step in and serve his district over the past several months.

Finally, we want to thank every representative who took the time to cast a ballot. Your participation is what keeps our organization strong and accountable.

County Representatives elected in 2026. Incumbents are noted with an asterisk.

District 3 District 6

Burleigh – *Dean Goetz, Bismarck Cavalier – Jakob Iverson, Langdon

Eddy– *Brady Richter, New Rockford Grand Forks – vacant

Emmons – *Tom Bernhardt, Linton Nelson – *John Steffan, Michigan

Foster – *Lee Greger, Carrington Pembina – *Kelly O’Toole, Crystal

Kidder – *Tim DeKrey, Steele Walsh – *Aaron Kjelland, Park River

Logan – *Bill Becker, Wishek

McIntosh – vacant

McLean – *Brian Fransen, Underwood

Sheridan – *Jim Pellman, McClusky

Stutsman –vacant

Wells - Mitchell Mason, Fesseden

If any producer is interested in serving in the vacant positions please contact your county extension agent.