South Dakota Water Feasibility Studies Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Johnson, Dusty [R-SD-At Large]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 15, 2026
Bottom line
The bill authorizes federal funding for feasibility studies to explore new and expanded water infrastructure projects in the Missouri River basin, aiming to improve water access for communities in South Dakota and neighboring states.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct three separate feasibility studies for municipal, rural, and industrial (MRI) water supply projects in the Missouri River basin, primarily in South Dakota and surrounding states. Each study aims to determine the viability of constructing specific water systems, including the Western South Dakota Water Supply Project, the expansion of the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System, and the Dakota Mainstem Water Supply Project. The bill authorizes $10 million for each study, with a 50% federal cost-share.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that these studies are crucial for addressing long-term water security challenges in the region, particularly for rural and tribal communities. They contend that investing in feasibility studies is a necessary first step to develop reliable water infrastructure, support economic growth, and ensure public health by providing safe and adequate water supplies. The cost-sharing mechanism demonstrates local commitment while leveraging federal expertise and resources.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that authorizing multiple, potentially costly, feasibility studies without a clear prioritization framework could lead to inefficient allocation of federal resources. Concerns could also be raised about the potential environmental impacts of new water diversions from the Missouri River, or that these studies might lead to large federal construction commitments in the future without sufficient justification for federal involvement over local funding.
The bill is concise and clearly structured, making it accessible for an informed reader to understand its core provisions within a short timeframe.
Title I, Sec. 103
Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study
This section directs the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the Western Dakota Regional Water System, Inc., to study the feasibility of a proposed project to supply municipal, rural, and industrial water from the Missouri River to the Western Dakota Regional Water System. Upon completion, the Secretary must submit a report recommending whether the project should be authorized for construction and determining the appropriate non-Federal share of construction costs (at least 25%). The federal share of the study costs is capped at 50%, and $10 million is authorized for this study.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this study is essential for addressing water scarcity and ensuring reliable water access for communities in Western South Dakota, fostering regional development and public health.
Critics contend
Critics might question the necessity of federal involvement in a regional water study, suggesting that local entities should bear the full cost, or raise concerns about potential future federal construction liabilities.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between the federal government's role in supporting regional infrastructure planning and the principle of local responsibility for water resource development. It also balances immediate study costs against potential long-term benefits of a secure water supply.
Title II, Sec. 203
Lewis and Clark Regional Water System Expansion Feasibility Study
This section mandates the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System, Inc., to conduct a feasibility study for expanding the capacity and reach of the system in Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. Similar to Title I, a report with construction authorization recommendations and non-Federal cost-share (at least 25%) will follow. The federal share of the study costs is capped at 50%, and $10 million is authorized for this study.
Title III, Sec. 303
Dakota Mainstem Water Supply Project Feasibility Study
This section authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Dakota Mainstem Regional Water System, through a cooperative agreement, to undertake a feasibility study for constructing a project to supply municipal, rural, and industrial water to its service area in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota. The study must comply with reclamation feasibility standards, and the federal share of costs is capped at 50%. $10 million is authorized for this study.