HCREC Members Experience the Energy Trail Tour

More than 120 electric cooperative member-owners from western and north-central Iowa participated in this year’s Energy Trail Tour, a three-day educational experience exploring how electricity is generated and delivered. Harrison County REC was pleased to send 12 members to enjoy this experience. The 2026 tours, departing from NIPCO’s headquarters in Le Mars in late June and July, took participants through the Dakotas to visit key facilities operated by Basin Electric Power Cooperative and Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). 2026 marks the 37th anniversary of the Energy Trail Tour as a three-day experience offered to members of the NIPCO and Corn Belt Power Cooperative systems.

Along the route, members explored a diverse energy mix, from hydroelectric generation at Big Bend Dam in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, to coal-based generation at Antelope Valley Station and lignite coal production at the Freedom Mine near Beulah, North Dakota. They also learned about wind energy and the production of synthetic natural gas and valuable byproducts at the Great Plains Synfuels Plant in Beulah.

Beyond the technical learning, the tour reinforced the cooperative difference—highlighting the history, principles, and community focus that set electric cooperatives apart from other utilities. Participants also enjoyed educational and entertaining stops that showcased non-energy points of interest throughout the Dakotas.

Sponsored by Iowa generation and transmission power cooperatives Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative and Corn Belt Power Cooperative, the Energy Trail Tour connects members with the people, resources, and partnerships that power their homes, farms, businesses, and communities, offering a firsthand look at what it takes to keep the lights on. Interested in participating next year? Contact our office at 712.647.2727 or visit our website at www.hcrec.coop/energytrailtour to find out how you can learn more about the 2027 Energy Trail Tour.