MT HB935

Bureau of Mines and Geology must complete a feasibility study on ground water availability from the Fox Hills-Hell Creek aquifer across 17 specified department administrative boundaries in Montana.

Study components may include compilation of geologic and hydrogeologic data, field collection of water levels and pressure from wells with historical data, a preliminary water budget, and a model evaluating pumping effects on water levels.

Bureau must report study progress and results to the Water Policy Interim Committee, which will make recommendations to the legislature on suspending or closing new ground water appropriations from the aquifer.

Act takes effect immediately upon passage and approval, with a termination date of June 30, 2027.