N.D. Cent. Code § 15-10-62

To promote national recognition and statewide enthusiasm, the legislative assembly encourages the university of North Dakota and the North Dakota state university of agriculture and applied science to play for the nickel trophy during the course of a national collegiate athletic association football game. If the athletic director or president of either institution elects not to play for the nickel trophy, the nickel trophy must be permanently displayed in the heritage center.