The North Dakota Highway Patrol made 114 felony arrests this year, a 65 percent increase over the same time period last year.
"The transportation of illegal narcotics within the state continues to be a significant concern," said Col. Mark Nelson, superintendent of the Highway Patrol.
The patrol has seen substantial increases in arrests and narcotic searches through use of canine teams and specialized training for troopers. The agency uses nine canines and has trained more than half of its troopers in criminal drug interdiction techniques.
During the past month, the patrol has assisted in seizure of 41 pounds of marijuana, with a street value of about $82,000. The seizures have been the result of cooperation through local law enforcement agencies and the use of Highway Patrol canines, according to a news release.
