85-2-525. Ground water investigation program -- advisory committee. (1) The Montana bureau of mines and geology shall develop and implement a ground water investigation program for the purpose of collecting and compiling ground water and aquifer data. The program shall gather data, compile existing information, conduct field studies, and prepare a detailed hydrogeologic assessment report for each subbasin. The program shall develop a monitoring plan and a hydrogeologic model for each subbasin for which a report is prepared.

(2) The ground water assessment steering committee, established by 2-15-1523, shall prioritize subbasins for investigation based upon current and anticipated growth of agriculture, industry, housing, and commercial activity. Permit applications for the development of surface water or ground water and the timing of adjudication of water rights may be taken into account in prioritizing subbasins.

(3) The bureau of mines and geology shall report, in accordance with 5-11-210, on the work of the ground water investigation program to the water policy committee established in 5-5-231.