The following is a message posted on May 27, 2026 by The Milk River Project and applies to Milk River Project Bureau of Reclamation pump contractors:
If you are a Milk River Project Bureau of Reclamation pump contractor and are diverting water from the Milk River without placing a water order, you are taking water outside of the approved system and impacting downstream users’ ability to receive their scheduled deliveries.
All pump contractors are required to follow the proper procedure by calling in water orders to Brooks at 406-247-7318 before pumping begins.
Operating without a water order not only disrupts river operations and other water users, but may also place your water contract in jeopardy.
Honestly folks, this is not that hard to make a quick phone call. A little common courtesy and communication goes a long way in helping us manage the system fairly for everyone depending on this water.
Feature photo via The Milk River Project