St. Ignatius Post

Water users assn. urges protection of water rights

Philipsburg, The Montana Water Users Association is on record opposing the proposed Federal Knowles Project in Western Montana because of what it believes could be resulting adverse claims against Montana's interests by downstream users and upstream by the Bureau of Reclamation.

The association advocated an aggressive water development program to protect Montana's water rights through beneficial use of water in Montana, pointing out that water is essential and stabilization of the largest industry in the state—agriculture.

The Bureau of Reclamation has claimed all unappropriated water above Canyon Ferry dam, which the association saw as a "dangerous precedent" that in all probability would be followed if additional multi-purpose federal projects are constructed.

The association also pointed out that impounding Montana water leading to beneficial use downstream will result in the loss of the water for the development of Montana's agricultural resources.

Development of a more aggressive water development program through the State Water Conservation Board, the state engineer's office and other appropriate departments or organizations was advocated.