This area is characterized by rich lake-bottom sediment, and sandy beach ridges 20 to 40 miles west of the Red River. As you travel west from Fargo or other eastern points, look for the sudden rise in elevation that signifies the sandy beaches. This water makes its way to the Mississippi River and finally to the Gulf of Mexico. North Dakota is the home for a wide variety of game and wildlife, and, therefore, also the home of many hunters and photographers. Teddy Roosevelt, our 26th President, entertainers Lawrence Welk, Angie Dickinson, and Peggy Lee, and baseball star Roger Maris all hail from North Dakota.
Agriculture is big business in North Dakota.
The diversity of crops grown in North Dakota is extensive. Nationally, North Dakota ranks first in production of hard red spring wheat, durum wheat, barley, sunflower, flax, dry edible beans, and oat. North Dakota ranks among the top five states for several other crops.