§ 61-41-02 — Legislative intent - Reports to legislative assembly

The legislative assembly declares and establishes the following goals and objectives:
1. That it is necessary for the long-term welfare and economic well-being of the Souris
River basin, and the entire state and its citizens, that the planning, design, and
construction of the Mouse River enhanced flood control project be completed and
implemented.
2. That the Red River valley water supply project is critical to provide a dependable water
supply for current and future generations in eastern North Dakota and is essential to
provide for the long-term welfare, economic well-being, and quality of life for the entire
state.
3. That it is necessary for the long-term welfare and economic well-being of the Red
River basin, and the entire state and its citizens, that the planning, design, and
construction of the Fargo-Moorhead flood control project be completed and
implemented.
4. That regional water supply and rural water systems are necessary to provide a
dependable and adequate quantity and quality water supply for municipal, domestic,
rural, and industrial uses.
5. That the state water commission and the southwest water authority shall begin the
process of reviewing capital repayment and revenues being returned to the resources
trust fund; payments necessary to meet obligations of existing bonds and other loans;
mill levies; ownership of land and associated facilities; existing construction
documents; liabilities; contracts with cities, bulk users, companies, and other users;
and other items, and shall report to the legislative assembly those steps necessary for
the transfer of ownership and responsibility of the southwest pipeline project from the
state water commission to the southwest water authority.
6. That the state water commission and the Garrison Diversion Conservancy District shall
enter discussions with the bureau of reclamation concerning Garrison diversion unit
facilities.
7. That projects receiving state funds for construction and implementation not assert,
claim, or seek to prevent other opportunities, either public or private, to utilize waters
of the Missouri River for industrial uses in this state.
8. That local water management and flood control projects are necessary for the
economic well-being and quality of life of citizens in those local areas.
9. That irrigation development offers significant opportunities for agriculture in this state.

10. That an infrastructure loan fund for water development and management will provide
significant financial benefits to projects and the citizens of this state, and will provide
new capabilities to implement necessary water infrastructure projects across the state.