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North Dakota Agriculture Hall of Fame Inducts Three New Members
Grain storage expert and ranching couple recognized for contributions to state's leading industry
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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The North Dakota Agriculture Hall of Fame has inducted three new members: Dr. Ken Hellevang, a leading expert on grain storage and drying, and Melvin and Luella Leland, second-generation owners of a 115-year-old Red Angus ranch in western North Dakota. The inductees were recognized during the North Dakota Winter Show in Valley City.
Why it matters
The North Dakota Agriculture Hall of Fame was established by the state legislature in 1997 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the state's agricultural industry, which is the leading economic driver. The induction of these new members highlights the important roles they have played in advancing grain storage technology and cattle ranching in North Dakota.
The details
Dr. Ken Hellevang was an Extension Agriculture Engineer at North Dakota State University from 1980 to 2024, during a period of major expansion in on-farm and commercial grain storage. He is considered one of the nation's leading experts on grain storage and drying, and has authored or contributed to over 230 publications and videos that have been distributed internationally. Melvin and Luella Leland are second-generation owners of the 115-year-old Leland Red Angus ranch on the edge of the western North Dakota Badlands. They have held leadership positions in various agricultural organizations, including serving as president of the North Dakota Stockmen's Association and the Red Angus Association of America.
- The induction ceremony took place on March 4, 2026 during the North Dakota Winter Show in Valley City.
- Dr. Ken Hellevang worked as an Extension Agriculture Engineer at North Dakota State University from 1980 to 2024.
The players
Dr. Ken Hellevang
One of the nation's leading experts on grain storage and drying, and a former Extension Agriculture Engineer at North Dakota State University.
Melvin and Luella Leland
Second-generation owners and operators of the 115-year-old Leland Red Angus ranch on the edge of the western North Dakota Badlands.
Al Gustin
A member of the North Dakota Agriculture Hall of Fame who gave the presentations for the Leland's and Dr. Ken Hellevang.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
The takeaway
The induction of Dr. Hellevang and the Leland family into the North Dakota Agriculture Hall of Fame underscores the state's commitment to honoring those who have made significant contributions to its leading industry. Their work in advancing grain storage technology and cattle ranching has had a lasting impact on North Dakota agriculture.
