BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – AARP ND is thrilled to announce a 2025 Community Challenge grant of $10,350 to the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway Association to create Wood Landing – a family picnic and fishing area with an accessible kayak/canoe launch on the Sheyenne River.

Since 2017, AARP has awarded $358,172 through 38 grants to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across North Dakota. As local leaders seek to better their communities for the future, these innovative projects become even more critical.

An AARP Community Challenge Grant will help establish Wood Landing on the Sheyenne River Water Trail, creating a public access point connecting Little Yellowstone Park and Fort Ransom State Park along the beautiful Sheyenne River Valley. A picnic area with restroom, handicap-accessible launch for kayaks and canoes, and a floating dock for fishing will all be ADA-compliant and accessible, providing multi-generational enjoyment and access to everyone.

This is one of six projects funded in North Dakota this year and part of the largest investment of grant dollars since the AARP Community Challenge grants began. The program funds innovative projects that inspire change in areas such as public places, housing, transportation, and more with a goal of making communities more livable for all ages, with a focus on people age 50+.