Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest premium gas in Mercer County at $4.88/gal (week ending Aug. 8), while Steele regular hit $4.04 and Cavalier regular dipped to $3.99—statewide averages eased to $3.80 regular and $4.55 premium. Ag Risk: NDSU warns drought-stressed forages can spike nitrate levels after rain, sometimes 2–3 days later; producers should allow 7–12 days of good growth before grazing or hay harvest. Agriculture Events: Central Lakes College’s Ag & Energy Research Center Field Day is set for Aug. 28 in Staples, featuring corn, drones, edible beans, irrigation, and hands-on kids’ activities. Wildlife & Hunting: ND Game and Fish set 2026 small game, waterfowl and furbearer rules, including a Sept. 26 opening for resident waterfowl and new trapping/season timing changes. Consumer Finance: North Dakota is part of a $15M settlement with mortgage servicer NewRez over force-placed insurance costs, with ND’s share deposited into the state regulatory fund. AI Policy: The ND AI and Data Center Committee heard calls to prioritize child safety, with concerns focused on companion chatbots and classroom safeguards. Community & Safety: ND State Patrol reported a fatal I-94 crash near Jamestown involving an SUV and a semi.