McKenzie County Farmer - Latest News

By M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and make a visible difference! Watford City is gearing up for its annual “Pick Up the Patch” event, a community-wide initiative encouraging residents, businesses, and groups to adopt sections of roadways and help keep their city clean and beautiful.

This year’s cleanup effort is scheduled for the week of May 5 to 11, 2025, and the Watford City Police Department (WCPD) is taking the lead in organizing this important event. According to Public Information Officer Jeffrey Jensen, the event has been going strong for quite some time. “Pick Up the Patch began in 2012, originally launched by the North Dakota Petroleum Council,” Officer Jensen explained in an email interview. “Since then, it has grown into a yearly tradition here in Watford City and across McKenzie County.”
Over the years, the Rough Rider Center played a significant role in coordinating the cleanup. However, in 2024, the responsibility shifted to the Watford City Police Department. “In 2024, the Watford City Police Department was asked to take the lead, as our location offers a convenient central hub for distributing cleanup materials,” Officer Jensen noted.

The City of Watford City has consistently championed community cleanup endeavors in Western North Dakota, and this year is no different. The “Pick Up the Patch” initiative provides a tangible way for everyone to contribute to the city’s appeal. “During that week, we’re encouraging local businesses, community groups, and residents to adopt a section of roadway - big or small - and help beautify our city,” Officer Jensen stated.

The initiative aims for broad participation across the community. “We hope to see broad participation as we work together to make a visible impact in our community,” Officer Jensen emphasized. This collective effort not only enhances the aesthetic of Watford City but also fosters a sense of community pride and responsibility.

Participating in “Pick Up the Patch” is easy. The WCPD will be providing essential cleanup supplies, including gloves, reflective vests, and garbage bags, available for pickup at the police department, located at 1201 12th St SE Suite A, from Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. during the cleanup week. Look for event flyers circulating ahead of the event, featuring the call to “PICK UP THE PATCH” alongside a QR code that allows interested individuals and groups to easily sign up and “claim your road!” For those who prefer a direct link, Officer Jensen provided the sign-up portal: https://pick-up-the-patch-mckenziecounty.hub.arcgis.com

For more information about the “Pick Up the Patch” event, individuals can contact the Watford City Police Department directly at 701-842-2280 or via email at WCPD@nd.gov.  Let’s all pitch in and help keep Watford City looking its best!

 Visit www.watfordcitynd.com and subscribe to the McKenzie County Farmer today!