Dakota Mainstem Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
- Authorizes up to $10 million for a study on building a regional water supply system serving parts of South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: rural towns, farmers, and businesses in the four-state Dakota Mainstem service area needing reliable water.
- Loses: taxpayers fronting federal costs; no construction guaranteed even after study finishes.
What it does
- Directs the Secretary of the Interior to study feasibility through a cooperative agreement with Dakota Mainstem Regional Water System, Inc.
- Caps the federal share of study costs at 50 percent; local partners cover the rest.
- Authorizes $10 million in appropriations for the study.
- Sunsets the authority 10 years after enactment.
Why should I care?
Supporters say rural Midwest communities face shrinking groundwater and need federal help planning long-term water security. Critics argue $10 million for a study (not actual construction) is slow and that local utilities should lead. An alternative being debated: direct construction grants instead of more studies. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.