In 1999, Darrell Dorgan of North Dakota said, "It will take about 50 obelisks to mark the North Dakota portion of the trail and Scott Olin of Dickinson Ready Mix is producing the seven-foot long concrete posts in Dickinson. He's donating the posts in what is a several-thousand-dollar gift to preserve the heritage and history of North Dakota's first industry."

He notes, "We will unveil the first concrete obelisk at the Courthouse in Amidon this summer and everyone is welcome to join us. We will continue the marking the spring of 2000 and hopefully finish the first stretch that summer from the South Dakota line to I-94."

Rotary clubs in states along the Great Western Trail route have also become involved in the project and The Bowman Rotary Club and a local promotion group have donated $2,500. The Dickinson Rotary Club is acting as the banker and is considering a donation for the project. Fisher Sand and Gravel in Dickinson has also provided help with the markers. The Medora tourism committee is considering a donation and sponsorships will be sought from Rotary Clubs in Watford City and Williston.

In addition to the obelisks that will mark the trail, five plaques will be placed to provide the history of the trail in North Dakota. The plaques will cost about $12,000 and money is being raised to pay for the plaques.