July 24, 2025
New Lands Director Joins MFDA Team
FARGO, ND (July 11, 2025) – The Metro Flood Diversion Authority recently hired a new director of lands and compliance. Justin Fisher will be responsible for overseeing land acquisition, crop insurance programs, and environmental sustainability measures for the FM Area Diversion project.
“We’re fortunate to have someone with Justin’s experience in this role,” said Jason Benson, MFDA executive director. “He brings not only the education and training necessary to be successful, but he also has project experience.”
Fisher previously worked on the diversion as a project manager with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. More recently, he worked as a project officer with the U.S. Department of Energy. He earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology (fisheries and wildlife management) from North Dakota State University, a master’s in business administration in project management and a master’s of science in public administration from Colorado Technical University, and a doctor of philosophy degree in environmental and conservation sciences from NDSU.
“I am excited to join the MFDA team. I view the diversion project as a tremendous undertaking that directly affects me, as well as my neighbors, friends, and family in the area,” Fisher said. “Seeing the project move from inception to actual construction has left me in awe as so many stakeholders, partners and residents have come together for a long-term solution to flooding in the metro area. This solution will have lasting generational effects, allowing the metro area to safely grow and thrive.”
Beyond the lands management portion of the position, Fisher will be responsible for compliance with environmental regulations.
“Our efforts to mitigate for environmental impacts enable us to account for impacted lands and associated habitats that will complement the diversion project’s functions and values,” he said. “The diversion project, including the mitigation efforts, will serve as a national model for future flood control projects and I consider myself lucky to be part of it.”
Fisher served two tours in Iraq and was awarded a Bronze Star Medal as well as a Purple Heart for wounds received in action. He’s the third veteran now employed full-time with the six-person MFDA team.
About the Metro Flood Diversion Authority
The MFDA is a permanent North Dakota political subdivision that is cooperatively implementing the Fargo-Moorhead Area Diversion comprehensive project with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The MFDA works in partnership with the Red River Valley Alliance in a public-private partnership as well as the City of Fargo, City of Moorhead, Cass County, Clay County and the Cass County Joint Water Resource District.