Update on Clash Over Water Fees for Missouri River

The public comments period was closed February 1, 2011. The period had been extended for 15 days, receiving comments from more than 70 tribes, federal, state and local agencies.

The US Army Corps of Engineers wants to charge a fee for taking water from the Missouri River.

There has never been a precedent for this charge according to Senator John Hoeven (previously the governor of North Dakota).

"The Missouri River shall forever be the property of the state of North Dakota and our water users must have access without cost and without the requirement of surplus water agreements. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is attempting to achieve monetary gain where none is justified," governor Jack Dalrymple said. Corps Project Manager Larry Janis said a review of public comment received is still ongoing.

The Corps proposes a fee of $20.91 per acre foot of water.

It should be noted that the Corps has said it can release 100,000 acre feet of water for fracking. It should also be noted that the Missouri River is 100,000 acre feet above the flood stage plan.