Omnibus Land Management Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-11)
On March 30, 2009, the Northern Plains National Heritage Area became a reality when the U.S. Congress passed the Omnibus Land Management Act of 2009. This designated the Northern Plains National Heritage Area and named the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation as its coordinating entity. This builds on and carries forward a legacy started when President Ronald Reagan signed the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Area into existence on August 24, 1984.
Amendment to Omnibus Land Management Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-11)
In October 2010, Sen. Byron Dorgan introduced an amendment to PL 111-11 that guaranteed the protection of private property from any regulations as a result of the Northern Plains National Heritage Area designation.
NPHF Bylaws
The mission of the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation (NPHF) is to develop and enhance heritage tourism by telling "the story of the heritage of the area," and encouraging "long-term resource protection, enhancement, interpretation, funding, management and development of the Heritage Area." This includes the "preservation and conservation of the National Heritage Area's nationally important stories."
Northern Plains National Heritage Area Management Plan
The Northern Plains National Heritage Area Management Plan is undergoing updates and revisions at this time.
Feasibility Study
Before designation of the Northern Plains National Heritage Area, the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation was charged with compiling a feasibility study that documented the natural, historic and cultural resources in the area, and demonstrated the ways in which the area met the standards for designation. The entire study, completed in 2007, is available for download.
