85-2-805. Criteria for approval -- terms. (1) The department may issue its approval of a diversion of water allocated to Montana under the terms of the compact or unallocated compact water diverted in Montana if:
     (a) the diversion and the ultimate use of the water in Montana are for a beneficial use of water;
     (b) the diversion and ultimate use of water will not adversely affect the water rights of other persons;
     (c) the proposed means of diversion, construction, and operation are adequate;
     (d) the diversion and ultimate use will not interfere unreasonably with other planned uses or developments for which a water right has been established or a permit has been issued or for which water has been reserved;
     (e) the diversion and ultimate use of water will not exceed the allocated share under the compact of any of the signatory states;
     (f) the diversion and ultimate use of the water are in the public interest of Montana; and
     (g) the applicant signs an agreement to comply with the laws of the signatory states to the compact in constructing, operating, and maintaining all facilities associated with the diversion and ultimate use of the water.
     (2) The department may approve a diversion of water allocated to North Dakota or Wyoming or unallocated compact water diverted in North Dakota or Wyoming if the diversion will not adversely affect the property, rights, or interests of an appropriator located in Montana and if the diversion and ultimate use of water will not exceed the allocated share under the compact of any of the signatory states.
     (3) The department may approve a diversion subject to such terms, conditions, restrictions, and limitations as it considers necessary to meet the applicable criteria listed in subsection (1) or (2).

     History: En. Sec. 5, Ch. 581, L. 1981.