With North Dakota’s 2025 legislative session now in the rearview mirror, the co-sponsors of the Red River Valley Water Supply Project (RRVWSP) are adjusting the work plan for the 2025-2027 biennium to match the budget approved by the legislature. Garrison Diversion Conservancy District (Garrison Diversion) and Lake Agassiz Water Authority (LAWA) requested $221 million from the Department of Water Resources Budget, House Bill 1020.

Ultimately, the legislature appropriated $205 million for the RRVWSP. Governor Kelly Armstrong signed House Bill 1020 on May 17. “We are grateful for the amount approved by legislators, which allows us to continue moving this historic project forward,” says Duane DeKrey, Garrison Diversion General Manager.

The $205 million represents the State’s 75% cost share for the upcoming biennium. End users of the emergency and supplemental water supply are responsible for the remaining 25% cost share.

“We appreciate the legislature’s support to move the project forward in a timely manner,” says Dr. Tim Mahoney, LAWA Chair and Fargo Mayor.

On June 13, the State Water Commission approved 26 water infrastructure funding requests for the 2025-2027 biennium, including $150 million for the RRVWSP. One goal of the 2025-2027 work plan is to continue progress on the installation of the transmission pipeline. Currently there are more than 40 miles of shovel-ready pipeline. The upcoming biennium will also see the final designs of the biota water treatment plant, McClusky Canal Pump Station, main pump station, and ground storage reservoirs.

During the 2023 legislative session, lawmakers approved legislative intent for the RRVWSP totaling $953 million in future funding. With the $205 million approved this year, that leaves $568 million for RRVWSP in future biennia.