State Board of Agricultural Research and Education (SBARE)

The state board of agricultural research and education (SBARE) is outlined in the North Dakota Century Code (NDCC 15-12.1-14). SBARE consists of five persons appointed to the state board of agricultural research and education by the ag coalition (NDCC 15-12.1-14.d). Terms of office are for four years, beginning on July 1, and an individual can be reappointed to a second four-year term (NDCC 15-12.1-14.3). At least ninety days before the term of a member appointed by the ag coalition expires, the ag coalition shall provide to the state board of higher education a list of one or more names from which the state board of higher education shall appoint a successor. The state board of higher education shall ensure four out of the five seats are held by agricultural producers (NDCC 15-12.1-14.4a).

The North Dakota Ag Coalition appoints five people to the State Board of Agricultural Research and Education (SBARE):

Jim Bahm - New Salem, ND (2028, II)
Doug Bichler - Linton, ND (2026, II)
Mike Clemens - Wimbledon, ND (2028, I)
Sarah Lovas - Hillsboro, ND (2025, II)
John Nordgaard - Bottineau, ND (2026, I)

On June 30, 2025, Sarah Lovas will have completed her second four-year term on SBARE; there is a two four-year term limit. As a result, the Ag Coalition is soliciting nominations for one candidate to serve a four-year term (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2029) on SBARE.

To nominate an individual, please provide that individual with a copy of the SBARE background sheet and application form. All applications must be accompanied by an endorsement from an Ag Coalition member organization.

The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. CT on Friday, Feb. 21. Selection of a nominee will take place at the next Ag Coalition membership meeting on Thursday, March 13.

Additional information on SBARE can be found on this SBARE Brochure or on the SBARE website. Any questions on nominations can be directed to Annika at 701-355-4458.