December 15, 2000
PASSAGE OF GARRISON DIVERSION LEGISLATION APPLAUDED
"Passage of the Dakota Water Resources Act (DWRA) is a major chapter in a very long history book, but it is not the final chapter needed to meet North Dakota's highest priority water needs," stated Warren Jamison, manager of the Garrison Diversion Conservancy District. "We see this as the beginning of an important first phase, ending in a solution that addresses North Dakota's current and future water needs."
The Dakota Water Resources Act, which passed Congress on December 15,provides immediate funding authority for the Native American and rural areas of the state through the existing Municipal, Rural and Industrial (MR&I) grant programs. At the same time, the bill provides funding authority for development of a plan that will determine the best way to meet the needs of the Red River Valley through a comprehensive study.
"North Dakota has received many benefits from the Garrison Diversion program, and this legislation will make it possible to continue providing opportunities for the future," state Jamison. "One of the opportunities included in this legislation is the Red River Valley needs assessment study."
The study to determine the best way to meet the needs of the Red River Valley is a joint process between Garrison Diversion, the US Bureau of Reclamation and the North Dakota State Water Commission. The DWRA legislation includes a provision for full analysis of the best ways to meet the needs of the Valley. The engineering, environmental and financial analysis is estimated to take three or more years, and includes a full environmental analysis, with participation by downstream interests and Canada. The agreement to begin the study was signed in April, 2000 and planning has already begun.
Jamison congratulated the Congressional Delegation, Governor and state leaders. "Through bi-partisan efforts, we are able to see this water development project move forward. Municipal and rural water systems, recreation, wildlife and environmental interests will all see benefits from the leadership's hard work."