S. 3723: Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act

The Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act is a proposed piece of legislation that primarily aims to determine whether it is feasible to construct a project that would provide water from the Missouri River to the Western Dakota Regional Water System. This project is intended to supply municipal, rural, and industrial water to areas in western South Dakota.

Key Components of the Bill

• Feasibility Study: The bill mandates the Secretary of the Interior to collaborate with a nonprofit organization called the Western Dakota Regional Water System, Inc. to conduct a study that assesses the feasibility of the proposed water supply project.
• Feasibility Report: Once the feasibility study is completed, the Secretary is required to create a report that includes:
  • A recommendation on whether the project should proceed to construction.
  • An analysis of the financial contributions that would be required from non-Federal entities, which should cover at least 25% of the total construction costs as well as operational costs.
• Public Disclosure: The report and related documents must be made publicly available and submitted to key congressional committees.
• Collaboration: The Secretary is also expected to consult and cooperate with various stakeholders, including Federal, State, Tribal, regional, and local authorities during the study process.
• Cost-Sharing Agreement: The Secretary will enter into a financial agreement with the nonprofit project entity to share the costs associated with conducting the feasibility study, with the Federal government covering up to 50% of the total costs.
• Funding Authorization: The bill authorizes an appropriation of $10 million to carry out the feasibility study and associated activities.
• Expiration of Authority: The authority granted by the bill will expire 10 years after it is enacted.

Objectives of the Bill

The main goal of the bill is to explore the possibility of developing a robust water supply system in western South Dakota, which would potentially help meet the water needs for various uses, including municipal, rural, and industrial purposes. The feasibility study serves to evaluate the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of such a project before any decision on construction is made.

Relevant Companies

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