How History Can Future-Proof Rural Communities | Cody Ferguson | TEDxUniversity of Montana Western

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What if the future of rural America isn't something we need to invent—but something we need to remember? Drawing on his experience as a planner working with Western communities, Cody Ferguson explores how the most resilient, financially sustainable, and people-centered places often reflect patterns that have already stood the test of time. By combining historical insight with modern challenges, he offers a hopeful vision for communities looking to thrive in an uncertain future. Sponsored by the Fund for Experience One, our conference provides a multidisciplinary forum for academic minds to gather and exchange ideas worth sharing. Speakers selected to present at TEDx University of Montana Western are directly connected to the local community or have topics that support Montana Western’s mission and values. TEDx University of Montana Western showcases the diversity and academic fortitude of our institution while providing a venue for speakers to submit their research to a global network. This conference was filmed in front of a live audience on March 21, 2026 in the Beier Auditorium. Learn more about TEDxUniversity of Montana Western by visiting www.umwestern.edu/tedx-umw/ or www.umwestern.edu. Dr. Cody Ferguson is a historian and sustainability scholar turned urban planner working with Houseal Lavigne, a leading national urban planning and geospatial services firm. His academic work explores democratic governance and how communities have addressed public goods challenges, including land conservation, toxic waste siting, water management, and the impacts of mining and energy development. He has authored several articles and the book, This is Our Land: Grassroots Environmentalism in the Late Twentieth Century (Rutgers, 2015) and co-authored several book chapters. Recently, he has shifted his focus from the past to the future. As a planner, he helps Western communities use data-driven tools to become more sustainable and resilient. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring Helena with his wife and two young children. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx