Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act
Apr 16, 2026
Apr 16, 2026
Summary
Orders a study to see if building a project to bring Missouri River water to Western South Dakota for towns, farms, and businesses is a good idea.
What problem does this solve?
Western South Dakota may need more water for its communities and industries as it grows. This bill orders a study to find out if a new water project from the Missouri River is a workable and affordable solution.
Who does this affect?
- Residents of Western South Dakota
- Businesses in Western South Dakota
- The Western Dakota Regional Water System, Inc.
What does this bill do?
Orders a feasibility study
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to study if a project to bring Missouri River water to the Western Dakota Regional Water System is possible.
Requires a report to Congress
Mandates the Secretary to create a report for Congress with a recommendation on whether the project should be built.
Sets cost-sharing rules for construction
States that if the project is recommended, the non-federal share of building costs must be at least 25%.
Splits the cost of the study
Limits the federal government's share of the study's cost to no more than 50%.
Authorizes funding for the study
Approves up to $10,000,000 for the Secretary of the Interior to conduct the study.
Sets a deadline for the authority
The power to conduct the study given by this bill will end 10 years after it becomes law.
What is the real world impact?
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Addresses future water needs
Ensures that growing communities and industries in Western South Dakota have a reliable and long-term water supply by exploring a major new source.
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Secures federal support for a local project
Initiates a federal study, which is the first step toward getting federal money to help build a very expensive water infrastructure project that local entities could not afford on their own.
When does this start?
The authority to conduct the study and use the funds expires 10 years after the bill becomes law.
Expiration of authority
The authority for the Secretary of the Interior to carry out the study ends 10 years after the date the Act is passed.