MT HB6

Appropriates $10.1 million from the natural resources projects state special revenue account to the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation for the 2026-2027 biennium for renewable resource grants

Allocates $2.65 million for department-awarded grants: $500,000 for emergency projects, $1 million for planning grants, $500,000 for irrigation development, $150,000 for private grants, and $500,000 for nonpoint source pollution reduction

Funds 41 prioritized infrastructure grants at $125,000 each ($4.75 million total) for drinking water and wastewater system improvements in communities including Whitehall, Deer Lodge, Malta, Libby, and others across Montana

Funds 27 prioritized irrigation grants totaling $2.74 million for projects including canal pipeline conversions, pump station rehabilitations, siphon replacements, and seepage mitigation at various irrigation districts

Amends ranking criteria rules to prioritize projects based on the ratio of locally provided match to annual operating budget, project size and cost, number of users served, and applicant's ability to fund capital improvements