Forensic Science Outreach: UND’s Forensic Science Society hosted community tours through a “crime scene house” at Gustafson Hall, aiming to show that forensics is more than TV CSI—spanning labs and digital work alongside DNA, toxicology, and other specialties. Paleontology Breakthrough: Scientists report the first known adult T. rex trackway in North Dakota’s Badlands—four giant three-toed prints spanning about 23 feet, found near Marmarth by a schoolteacher and published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. AI Infrastructure in the Red River Valley: Applied Digital is nearing completion on two massive AI data center buildings in Harwood, described as “like a small city,” with the Polaris Forge 2 project adding to similar facilities in Ellendale, Jamestown, and near Center. Public Health & Regulation: North Dakota lawmakers passed a bill to regulate natural kratom while banning synthetic products, ending a special session and rescinding a temporary governor’s order. Ag Education: Jamestown-area students continue hands-on conservation learning through Eco Ed, rotating through soil, water quality, and wildlife stations led by local professionals. Critical Minerals Update: Talon Metals scrapped plans for a Beulah nickel processing plant, shifting processing to its Humboldt Mill in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Safety Reminder: NDSU Extension and partners highlighted injury risks for youth operating off-highway vehicles, citing pediatric trauma admissions tied to ATVs/UTVs. STEM Recognition: Purdue food science leader Senay Simsek received the 2026 Harald Perten Prize for cereal science and technology.