82-2-701. Sand and gravel deposit program -- investigation -- purpose -- prioritization. (1) The Montana bureau of mines and geology shall establish a sand and gravel deposit program for the purpose of investigating sand and gravel deposits in areas of the state where conflicts between development and sand and gravel operations are high.

(2) In prioritizing areas for investigation, the bureau of mines and geology shall consider the largest counties, according to the most recent census data, and counties with the most opencut mining permits and subdivision applications, according to the department of environmental quality.

(3) The bureau of mines and geology may start an investigation when it has sufficient funds to conduct an investigation.

(4) Within 1 year of starting an investigation, the bureau of mines and geology shall present the results of the investigation in the form of maps and text and in accordance with 5-11-210 to:

(a) the counties included in the investigation;

(b) the local government interim committee; and

(c) the environmental quality council.