H.R. 907: Northern Montana Water Security Act of 2025

The "Northern Montana Water Security Act of 2025" aims to address and resolve water rights claims for the Fort Belknap Indian Community and establish a formal agreement regarding these rights with the State of Montana. This proposed legislation focuses on several key areas:

Water Rights Settlement

The act seeks to settle existing claims to water rights for the Fort Belknap Indian Community, ensuring that they have secure access to water resources that are vital for their community and agricultural needs.

Water Rights Compact

It authorizes the formation of a water rights compact between the Fort Belknap Indian Community and the State of Montana. This compact will outline the management and allocation of water rights to promote cooperative use and ensure sustainable water resource management.

Land Trust and Management

The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to take specific lands into trust for the benefit of the Fort Belknap Indian Community. This includes:

• Conditions for land exchanges
• Provision of financial support for land appraisals
• Allocation and management of water rights

Additionally, it includes provisions that generally prohibit gaming on these lands, ensuring they remain designated as part of the Reservation.

Trust Fund Establishment

The legislation proposes the creation of a trust fund dedicated to the Fort Belknap Indian Community. This fund is intended for the development and maintenance of water resources, with specific guidelines that include:

• Identification of funding sources
• Management and oversight of the fund's activities
• Usage restrictions for water resource projects

The costs associated with this fund are to be covered through non-reimbursable expenditures, and the act details the responsibilities of the Secretary in administering the fund and its accounts.

Funding Allocations

The act allocates a total of $228,707,684 for specific purposes related to the water rights settlement and associated projects, which will be available without additional appropriation. Among these allocations, there is a stipulation for a state contribution of $5 million towards the Fort Belknap Indian Community's irrigation projects, contingent upon approval by the Montana Water Court. The legislation also allows for adjustments in this funding based on changing market conditions.

Key Components

• Settlement of water rights claims for the Fort Belknap Indian Community.
• Authorization of a water rights compact with the State of Montana.
• Trust land provisions and water rights management by the Secretary.
• Establishment and management of a trust fund for water resource development.
• Significant funding allocations for water-related projects and irrigation.

Relevant Companies

• None found