|
As we wrap up the first quarter of 2026, the Department of Water Resources remains focused on our core mission of responsibly managing North Dakota’s water resources for a resilient future. Across our efforts, that word “resilience” is a common theme that stands out above the rest.
One of our most significant efforts this spring was the development and presentation of a legislative-directed study of the State Water Commission’s Cost-Share Policy. During the March 26 Water Topics Overview Committee meeting, we presented a 14-year strategic funding plan which addresses a projected $1.3 billion gap between expected revenues and known water infrastructure needs. Rather than defer funding decisions and moving backward, we are confronting that gap directly and moving forward by prioritizing projects, aligning funding with delivery timelines, and ensuring we remain disciplined stewards of taxpayer resources.
At the center of this plan is a commitment to finish projects that North Dakotans have been waiting on for far too long.
The Red River Valley Water Supply Project is a generational investment that has been discussed, studied, and debated for more than 60 years. Today, we are closer than ever to completion. Our plan prioritizes the funding necessary to see this project through, providing the financial certainty needed to deliver the drought resiliency that over one-half of North Dakotans are counting on. Similarly, our plan prioritizes completion of the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project. The devastating floods of 2011 left a lasting mark on the City of Minot and the Souris River Valley, and its citizens have been working toward long-term protection ever since. Under our plan, funding of these two projects will not compete with other projects which are reliant on Resources Trust Fund revenues.
Public safety is also the driving force behind a new initiative we’ve launched, Operation Safe Flow. This effort focuses on reducing risks associated with low-head dams across the state, including removal where appropriate and targeted mitigation where removal is not feasible. These structures present real and ongoing hazards. Through Operation Safe Flow, we are taking a proactive, data-driven approach to reducing those risks and protecting our citizens.
At the same time, we are operating in an increasingly complex regional and national environment. Recent public discourse surrounding Missouri River management, including dueling opinion pieces between North Dakota and Missouri, has highlighted differing perspectives on how this shared resource should be managed. While those discussions may at times be pointed, our focus remains on meeting our water needs within a system designed to serve many purposes.
Internally, we continue to focus on execution and accountability. On April 1, updated administrative rules initiated by the Department went into effect. These changes are designed to reduce permit review and response times, provide greater clarity and consistency for applicants, and reinforce our commitment to transparency. Just as importantly, we are holding ourselves accountable—to be responsive, efficient, and clear in how we serve the public.
This is what “back to the basics” looks like in practice: delivering projects, improving processes, and staying focused on the core mission.
The work ahead is significant, but so is the opportunity. North Dakota continues to grow and evolve, and with that growth comes increased demand on our water resources. By planning deliberately, investing strategically, and executing with discipline, we are ensuring that our water systems are ready, not just for today, but for decades to come.
Our work is generational work. The decisions we make now will define the strength, safety, and prosperity of our state well into the future. I am confident in the direction we are headed and grateful for the continued partnership of communities, stakeholders, and Team DWR as we continue to build a resilient water future.
-Director Reice Haase
| 
