WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

LC 557

Limits to Fox Hills-Hell Creek aquifer withdrawals

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill to restrict Fox Hills-Hell Creek aquifer withdrawals, potentially limiting water access for agricultural, municipal, and industrial users while protecting long-term groundwater sustainability.

(LC) Draft in Assembly
#appropriations(seealso:statefinance) #revenue #state #water
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 557

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 557 proposes to establish withdrawal limits on the Fox Hills-Hell Creek aquifer in Montana. The bill is currently in the final drafting stages and has not yet been introduced to the legislature for formal consideration. This aquifer system serves agricultural, municipal, and industrial water users across a significant portion of eastern Montana.

Why is this important

The Fox Hills-Hell Creek aquifer is a major groundwater resource in Montana, and extraction rates have raised concerns about long-term sustainability and potential depletion. Setting withdrawal limits could affect water availability for farms, ranches, municipalities, and businesses that depend on this resource, while potentially protecting the aquifer for future generations.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on agriculture: Farmers and ranchers relying on aquifer irrigation may face reduced water allocations, affecting crop yields and operational costs, particularly during drought conditions
  • Municipal vs. agricultural water rights: Conflicts may arise over prioritizing water for growing towns versus established agricultural operations with senior water rights
  • Enforcement and monitoring mechanisms: Questions about how withdrawal limits will be measured, enforced, and what penalties apply for violations remain unclear without the final bill language

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.