The North Dakota Wheat Commission works to expand use of wheat grown by North Dakota farmers by creating worldwide market opportunities by maintaining and expanding overseas and domestic markets, promoting the health benefits of wheat foods, funding varietal development and other research efforts, and influencing domestic and trade policy efforts. Wheat producers fund these programs with a checkoff of a penny and a half on each bushel sold.
The North Dakota Wheat Commission is directed through a grassroots approach. Producers meet at the county level to elect representatives, who in turn elect six district commissioners. The governor appoints a seventh commissioner from a list of nominees submitted by major farm and grower organizations. These seven producers make up the board of commissioners. They develop policy and programs, oversee their implementation and approve budget expenditures. Commissioners can serve no more than three four-year terms. Five employees administer programs and activities.