North Dakota is currently battling an increase in bed bug infestations across several cities, posing a significant challenge to residents, businesses, and local authorities. The five cities most notably combatting this bed bug onslaught are Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, and West Fargo.
Fargo, the largest city in North Dakota, has experienced a marked rise in bed bug cases. Both residents and local hotels have reported multiple infestations, prompting the city’s public health department to actively engage in education programs. These initiatives help people identify and manage bed bugs, while also increasing inspections of hotels and public spaces. The city has partnered with pest control companies to help eradicate the pests.
Bismarck is facing a similar increase in infestations, affecting residential and commercial properties alike. City officials are promoting early detection and prevention strategies, urging residents to regularly inspect their homes and report any signs of bed bugs for swift intervention.
Grand Forks has seen reports of bed bugs not only in private homes but also in public areas such as libraries and schools. The city is conducting awareness campaigns to ensure residents understand the risks and methods of prevention. Collaboration with property owners helps with targeted treatment efforts to stop further spread.
Minot has proactively launched information campaigns in partnership with pest control services. Efforts there include advising residents to use protective bed covers, seal potential entry points like cracks, and apply insecticides when needed. This citywide strategy aims to both educate and treat affected populations.
West Fargo is also contending with infestations spreading through residential areas. The city’s approach involves public education on early bed bug signs—like blood stains or dark spots on bedding—while working closely with exterminators to treat infested properties. Emphasis is also placed on proper sanitation practices to reduce the chance of bed bugs taking hold.
North Dakota’s growing bed bug problem has been partly attributed to factors such as increased travel, which can carry pests into new areas on luggage or clothing, and a lack of widespread preventive knowledge. These tiny pests thrive in places with high human activity, including hotels, apartments, and public transport hubs.
The combined efforts of these cities focus heavily on public awareness, early detection, and rapid treatment to manage the bed bug population. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take preventive steps—from inspecting sleeping areas regularly to maintaining cleanliness and seeking professional pest control help when needed.
While the bed bug invasion poses a tough challenge, the coordinated response by North Dakota communities aims to control and eventually reduce the impact of these persistent pests on homes and businesses across the state.
Sources
(https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/13/insect-invasion-5-north-dakota-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/)
(https://us1033.com/one-north-dakota-city-top-60-in-bed-bug-infestations-in-usa/)
(https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings)
(https://hotelbusiness.com/bed-bug-population-booms-as-travel-season-looms/)
(https://www.mentalfloss.com/geography/maps/cities-most-worried-about-bed-bugs)
