Here is the latest North Dakota news from The Associated Press

Fargo, N.D. (AP) The Agriculture Department says development of small grains crops remains behind average in North Dakota because of the cool, wet spring. The agency's weekly crop report says the condition ratings for spring wheat, durum wheat and barley are mostly good to excellent.

HOPE, N.D. (AP) The smiley face water tower in the eastern North Dakota town of Hope is coming down this fall. A new water tower is under construction right next to the one known as "Little Smiley" because it looks like a smaller version of the smiley face water tower in Grand Forks. That one also is to be demolished.

Valley City, N.D. (AP) A proposed wind energy center expansion is drawing objections from neighbors who worry about the noise and other potential health problems. The state requires wind turbines to be at least a quarter-mile from the nearest occupied dwelling.

Some say that's still too close.

HAYDEN, Idaho (AP) Montana Sen. Jon Tester's mother, Helen Tester, has died of natural causes. She was 89. helen Tester was born in North Dakota. Funeral services will be Wednesday in Idaho.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-29-09 1557CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list