Let's Get The Water Turned On!

Golf Course Water is a newly formed member organization charged with constructing and maintaining a pipeline of irrigation water for the SK-024 Daly Ditch lateral so that we can realize our water rights and improve the value of our property. Please register below and review the other pages to stay informed and ensure you're part of the progress as we move forward with this project.

© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Water Project Registration

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© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

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© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Your Water Rights

We have researched and compiled the latest information on each property within the lateral for your review below.

Street AddressMiner's
Inches*
Approx
GPM*
Tax DetailMap Detail
1222 Golf Course36.26417LinkLink
1135 Golf Course25.00288LinkLink
1073 Golf Course (A)5.6265LinkLink
1073 Golf Course (B)5.0058n/aLink
1073 Golf Course (C)5.0058n/aLink
1075 Golf Course4.8055LinkLink
1093 Golf Course4.6453LinkLink
546 Broken Arrow2.6631LinkLink
582 Broken Arrow2.4428LinkLink
608 Broken Arrow2.2726LinkLink
551 Broken Arrow1.9923LinkLink
628 Broken Arrow1.9723LinkLink
591 Broken Arrow1.9322LinkLink
592 Broken Arrow1.7820LinkLink
670 Broken Arrow1.7020LinkLink
648 Broken Arrow1.5818LinkLink
570 Broken Arrow1.5017LinkLink

*A miner’s inch is a historical unit used in irrigation water rights in Montana and other western states. It measures the flow rate of water. In Montana, 1 miner's inch equals 11.5 gallons per minute. The measurement originates from mining but is now commonly used to define water rights for agricultural purposes. It’s important for irrigation because our water rights are allocated based on the number of miner’s inches a landowner is entitled to, which impacts the volume of water we can divert for use.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Cost Calculator

Water Project Cost Calculator

Ends at ~8,000 ft – before Big Ditch crossing. Pending Broken Arrow distribution beyond.

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Select Participating Addresses

Check the addresses that will participate in the project. Costs will be distributed proportionally based on water rights in miner's inches.

Cost Breakdown

Participating
0
Total Inches
0
Cost/Inch
$0

Individual Costs

Enter cost per foot to see breakdowns

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Pipeline Route

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Hydraulic Design

Pipeline Overview - Updated SurveyLTotal: 8,121 ft (2,707 yards)F1,225 GPM total156 ft total dropΔP11.37 psi total friction lossSystem ComponentsWater SourceUser ConnectionTurnoutFlow DirectionAll pipes are HDPE materialElevation Profile - Hydraulic Design4,100 ft4,000 ft3,900 ft3,800 ft12"10"10"8"8"8"Source1222 GCR1073 Turnout1135 GCR1093 GCR1075 GCRBA Turnout02,7995,5445,9047,0087,7228,121 ftDistance from SourceSegment #0 (2,799 ft)Source → 1222 GCR12" HDPE • Flow: 1,225 GPMVelocity: 3.62 ft/sFriction Loss: 4.33 psi6" Riser • 24.3 psi dynamicSegment #1 (2,745 ft)1222 GCR → 1073 Turnout10" HDPE • Flow: 808 GPMVelocity: 3.47 ft/sFriction Loss: 4.88 psiTurnout: 4" • 41.9 psi dynamicSegment #2 (360 ft)1073 Turnout → 1135 GCR10" HDPE • Flow: 624 GPMVelocity: 2.68 ft/sFriction Loss: 0.40 psi4" Riser • 45.4 psi dynamicSegment #3 (1,104 ft)1135 GCR → 1093 GCR8" HDPE • Flow: 336 GPMVelocity: 2.19 ft/sFriction Loss: 1.07 psi2" Riser • 49.9 psi dynamicSegment #4 (714 ft)1093 GCR → 1075 GCR8" HDPE • Flow: 283 GPMVelocity: 1.84 ft/sFriction Loss: 0.50 psi2" Riser • 52.0 psi dynamicSegment #5 (399 ft)1075 GCR → BA Turnout8" HDPE • Flow: 228 GPMVelocity: 1.48 ft/sFriction Loss: 0.19 psiTurnout: 4" • 56.2 psi dynamic*Dynamic pressures calculated at maximum simultaneous flow with all users drawing allocated flow rates

Formal Analysis

Introduction

This analysis evaluates the proposed gravity-fed irrigation pipeline for 17 water users along the SK-024 Daly Ditch lateral in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana. The pipeline conveys water from an open irrigation ditch (source) at elevation 4081 ft through a mainline that passes directly through each user's property. All calculations utilize the Hazen-Williams equation with standard parameters for HDPE pipe systems.

Basis

This analysis utilizes industry-standard hydraulic principles and the Hazen-Williams equation with typical roughness coefficients for HDPE pipe materials. Calculations assume design conditions and parameters as provided in the project specifications. Field conditions may vary, and actual performance should be verified during commissioning.

Hazen-Williams Equation for friction loss:
Pd = 4.52 × (Q1.85) / (C1.85 × dh^4.8655)
Where:
Pd = pressure drop per foot of pipe (psi/ft)
Q = flow rate (GPM)
C = roughness coefficient (140 for HDPE)
dh = internal pipe diameter (inches)
Key Design Values:
• Source elevation: 4,081 ft
• Total system flow: 1,225 GPM
• Pressure conversion: 0.433 psi per foot of elevation
• HDPE pipe with SDR 17 (125 psi rating)
• Internal diameters: 12"=11.77", 10"=9.76", 8"=7.92", 6"=6.04", 4"=4.20", 2"=1.95"
Note: Static pressure represents the maximum pressure with no water flowing. Dynamic pressure represents the expected pressure under worst-case conditions when all users are simultaneously drawing their maximum water allocation.

1222 Golf Course (Segment: #0) - Source To User 1

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 12-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 2,799 feet
- Flow Velocity: 3.62 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 4.33 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 4.33 psi
- Static Pressure: 28.6 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 24.3 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 6-inch (for 417 GPM @ 4.67 ft/s)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 933 yards = 2,799 feet
- Pipe size: 12-inch HDPE (ID = 11.77 inches)
- Flow: 1,225 GPM (all users)
- Start elevation: 4,081 ft (source)
- End elevation: 4,015 ft (User 1)
- Elevation drop: 66 ft
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 66 ft × 0.433 = 28.6 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 11.77 inches = 0.981 ft
Area = π × (0.981/2)² = 0.755 ft²
Flow = 1,225 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 2.73 cfs
Velocity = 2.73 cfs ÷ 0.755 ft² = 3.62 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (1,225^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 11.77^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
1,225^1.85^ = 516,064
140^1.85^ = 9,333
11.77^4.8655^ = 161,673
P~d~ = (4.52 × 516,064) / (9,333 × 161,673)
P~d~ = 2,332,609 / 1,509,294,309
P~d~ = 0.001546 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.001546 psi/ft × 2,799 ft = 4.33 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 psi
Dynamic Pressure at User 1:
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 28.6 psi - 4.33 psi = 24.3 psi
X | Riser Option 1: 4-inch (Exceeds 7 ft/s)
Area = π × (4.20/12/2)² = 0.0963 ft²
Flow = 417 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 0.929 cfs
Velocity = 0.929 ÷ 0.0963 = 9.65 ft/s
✓ | Riser Option 2: 6-inch (In Range)
Area = π × (6.04/12/2)² = 0.199 ft²
Flow = 417 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 0.929 cfs
Velocity = 0.929 ÷ 0.199 = 4.67 ft/s

1073 Golf Course (Segment #1) - User 1 to Turnout for 3 Properties

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 10-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 2,745 feet
- Flow Velocity: 3.47 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 4.88 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 9.21 psi
- Static Pressure: 51.1 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 41.9 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 4-inch (for 184 GPM @ 4.26 ft/s, within safe velocity range)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 915 yards = 2,745 feet
- Pipe size: 10-inch HDPE (ID = 9.76 inches)
- Flow: 808 GPM (remaining flow after User 1)
- Start elevation: 4,015 ft (User 1)
- End elevation: 3,963 ft (Turnout for 1073 GCR neighborhood)
- Elevation drop: 52 ft in this segment (total drop from source = 118 ft)
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop from source (4,081 ft - 3,963 ft = 118 ft) × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 118 ft × 0.433 = 51.1 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 9.76 inches = 0.813 ft
Area = π × (0.813/2)² = 0.519 ft²
Flow = 808 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 1.80 cfs
Velocity = 1.80 cfs ÷ 0.519 ft² = 3.47 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (808^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 9.76^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
808^1.85^ = 238,849
140^1.85^ = 9,333
9.76^4.8655^ = 65,125
P~d~ = (4.52 × 238,849) / (9,333 × 65,125)
P~d~ = 1,079,597 / 607,816,125
P~d~ = 0.001777 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.001777 psi/ft × 2,745 ft = 4.88 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 + 4.88 = 9.21 psi
Dynamic Pressure at Turnout (1073 GCR Neighborhood):
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 51.1 psi - 9.21 psi = 41.9 psi
X | Riser Option 1: 3-inch (Exceeds 7 ft/s)
Velocity ~8.35 ft/s, exceeds 7 ft/s limit
✓ | Riser Option 2: 4-inch (In Range)
Velocity ~4.26 ft/s, within acceptable range

1135 Golf Course (Segment #2) - Turnout to User 2

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 10-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 360 feet
- Flow Velocity: 2.68 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 0.40 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 9.61 psi
- Static Pressure: 55.0 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 45.4 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 4-inch (for 288 GPM @ 6.67 ft/s, within safe velocity range)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 120 yards = 360 feet
- Pipe size: 10-inch HDPE (ID = 9.76 inches)
- Flow: 624 GPM (remaining flow after 1073 GCR turnout)
- Start elevation: 3,963 ft (1073 GCR Turnout)
- End elevation: 3,954 ft (User 2 at 1135 GCR)
- Elevation drop: 9 ft in this segment (total drop from source = 127 ft)
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop from source (4,081 ft - 3,954 ft = 127 ft) × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 127 ft × 0.433 = 55.0 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 9.76 inches = 0.813 ft
Area = π × (0.813/2)² = 0.519 ft²
Flow = 624 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 1.39 cfs
Velocity = 1.39 cfs ÷ 0.519 ft² = 2.68 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (624^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 9.76^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
624^1.85^ = 148,270
140^1.85^ = 9,333
9.76^4.8655^ = 65,125
P~d~ = (4.52 × 148,270) / (9,333 × 65,125)
P~d~ = 670,180 / 607,816,125
P~d~ = 0.001103 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.001103 psi/ft × 360 ft = 0.40 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 + 4.88 + 0.40 = 9.61 psi
Dynamic Pressure at User 2 (1135 GCR):
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 55.0 psi - 9.61 psi = 45.4 psi
X | Riser Option 1: 3-inch (Exceeds 7 ft/s)
Velocity ~13.1 ft/s, exceeds 7 ft/s limit
✓ | Riser Option 2: 4-inch (In Range)
Velocity ~6.67 ft/s, within acceptable range

1093 Golf Course (Segment #3) - User 2 To User 3

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 8-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 1,104 feet
- Flow Velocity: 2.19 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 1.07 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 10.68 psi
- Static Pressure: 60.6 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 49.9 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 2-inch (for 53 GPM @ 5.7 ft/s, within safe velocity range)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 368 yards = 1,104 feet
- Pipe size: 8-inch HDPE (ID = 7.92 inches)
- Flow: 336 GPM (remaining flow after User 2)
- Start elevation: 3,954 ft (User 2)
- End elevation: 3,941 ft (User 3 at 1093 GCR)
- Elevation drop: 13 ft in this segment (total drop from source = 140 ft)
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop from source (4,081 ft - 3,941 ft = 140 ft) × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 140 ft × 0.433 = 60.6 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 7.92 inches = 0.660 ft
Area = π × (0.660/2)² = 0.342 ft²
Flow = 336 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 0.749 cfs
Velocity = 0.749 cfs ÷ 0.342 ft² = 2.19 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (336^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 7.92^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
336^1.85^ = 47,182
140^1.85^ = 9,333
7.92^4.8655^ = 23,576
P~d~ = (4.52 × 47,182) / (9,333 × 23,576)
P~d~ = 213,263 / 220,133,208
P~d~ = 0.000969 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.000969 psi/ft × 1,104 ft = 1.07 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 + 4.88 + 0.40 + 1.07 = 10.68 psi
Dynamic Pressure at User 3 (1093 GCR):
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 60.6 psi - 10.68 psi = 49.9 psi
✓ | Riser Option 1: 2-inch (In Range)
Velocity ~5.7 ft/s, within acceptable range
X | Riser Option 2: 3-inch (Oversized)
Velocity ~2.4 ft/s, oversizing with very low velocity

1075 Golf Course (Segment #4) - User 3 To User 4

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 8-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 714 feet
- Flow Velocity: 1.84 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 0.50 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 11.18 psi
- Static Pressure: 63.2 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 52.0 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 2-inch (for 55 GPM @ 5.9 ft/s, within safe velocity range)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 238 yards = 714 feet
- Pipe size: 8-inch HDPE (ID = 7.92 inches)
- Flow: 283 GPM (remaining flow after User 3)
- Start elevation: 3,941 ft (User 3)
- End elevation: 3,935 ft (User 4 at 1075 GCR)
- Elevation drop: 6 ft in this segment (total drop from source = 146 ft)
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop from source (4,081 ft - 3,935 ft = 146 ft) × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 146 ft × 0.433 = 63.2 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 7.92 inches = 0.660 ft
Area = π × (0.660/2)² = 0.342 ft²
Flow = 283 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 0.631 cfs
Velocity = 0.631 cfs ÷ 0.342 ft² = 1.84 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (283^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 7.92^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
283^1.85^ = 34,326
140^1.85^ = 9,333
7.92^4.8655^ = 23,576
P~d~ = (4.52 × 34,326) / (9,333 × 23,576)
P~d~ = 155,153 / 220,133,208
P~d~ = 0.000705 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.000705 psi/ft × 714 ft = 0.50 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 + 4.88 + 0.40 + 1.07 + 0.50 = 11.18 psi
Dynamic Pressure at User 4 (1075 GCR):
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 63.2 psi - 11.18 psi = 52.0 psi
✓ | Riser Option 1: 2-inch (In Range)
Velocity ~5.9 ft/s, within acceptable range
X | Riser Option 2: 3-inch (Oversized)
Velocity ~2.5 ft/s, oversizing with very low velocity

Broken Arrow Subdivision (Segment #5) - User 4 to Turnout for 10 Properties

Results Summary:
- Mainline: 8-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 399 feet
- Flow Velocity: 1.48 ft/s
- Friction Loss: 0.19 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss: 11.37 psi
- Static Pressure: 67.6 psi (no flow in pipeline)
- Dynamic Pressure: 56.2 psi (worst case - all users at max flow)
- Riser Size: 4-inch (for 228 GPM @ 5.3 ft/s, within safe velocity range)
Segment Parameters:
- Length: 133 yards = 399 feet
- Pipe size: 8-inch HDPE (ID = 7.92 inches)
- Flow: 228 GPM (remaining flow after User 4)
- Start elevation: 3,935 ft (User 4)
- End elevation: 3,925 ft (Broken Arrow neighborhood turnout)
- Elevation drop: 10 ft in this segment (total drop from source = 156 ft)
Static Pressure Calculation:
Static pressure = Elevation drop from source (4,081 ft - 3,925 ft = 156 ft) × 0.433 psi/ft
Static pressure = 156 ft × 0.433 = 67.6 psi
Velocity Calculation:
Pipe ID = 7.92 inches = 0.660 ft
Area = π × (0.660/2)² = 0.342 ft²
Flow = 228 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 0.508 cfs
Velocity = 0.508 cfs ÷ 0.342 ft² = 1.48 ft/s
Friction Loss Calculation:
P~d~ = 4.52 × (228^1.85^) / (140^1.85^ × 7.92^4.8655^)
Step-by-step:
228^1.85^ = 23,016
140^1.85^ = 9,333
7.92^4.8655^ = 23,576
P~d~ = (4.52 × 23,016) / (9,333 × 23,576)
P~d~ = 104,032 / 220,133,208
P~d~ = 0.000473 psi/ft
Total friction loss = 0.000473 psi/ft × 399 ft = 0.19 psi
Cumulative Friction Loss:
Cumulative loss = 4.33 + 4.88 + 0.40 + 1.07 + 0.50 + 0.19 = 11.37 psi
Dynamic Pressure at Broken Arrow Turnout:
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure - Cumulative friction loss
Dynamic pressure = 67.6 psi - 11.37 psi = 56.2 psi
X | Riser Option 1: 3-inch (Exceeds 7 ft/s)
Velocity ~10.3 ft/s, exceeds 7 ft/s limit
✓ | Riser Option 2: 4-inch (In Range)
Velocity ~5.3 ft/s, within acceptable range

Maintenance Considerations

Essential Annual Tasks:
• Spring commissioning: Exercise valves and check for winter damage
• Fall winterization: Drain all low points before freezing temperatures
Winterization Requirements:
• Minimum burial depth of 48 inches provides frost protection
• Install drain valves at all low points
• Compressed air purging may be required for complete drainage

System Longevity & Performance

This gravity-fed pipeline system is designed to provide reliable irrigation water delivery for decades with proper maintenance. HDPE pipe systems typically have a service life of 50-100 years when properly installed and maintained. The SDR 17 rating (125 psi) provides a safety factor of 2.5x over the maximum operating pressure of 50 psi.Key factors ensuring long-term performance:
• 48-inch burial depth exceeds frost protection requirements
• HDPE material is corrosion-resistant and handles ground movement well
• Telescoping design maintains optimal flow velocities throughout the system
• All pressures remain well below pipe pressure ratings
The calculated hydraulic performance assumes clean pipe conditions and design flows. Actual field performance may vary based on:• Simultaneous water usage patterns
• Seasonal variations in source water availability
• Long-term biofilm development (minimal in HDPE)
• Accuracy of elevation survey data
Field verification during commissioning will confirm actual system performance and allow for any necessary adjustments to meet design objectives.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Common Questions

Who can I contact for more information or updates about the pipeline project?The Mestons of 1075 Golf Course Road are spearheading the pipeline project and will continue to provide regular updates to all members. If you have additional questions or need more information, please register at the link below and email [email protected] to get in touch.
How do we ensure that we don’t lose our water rights?
In Montana, water rights may be abandoned if they go unused for an extended period, or if there is no clear intention to use them. To prevent forfeiture, it's crucial to continuously exercise these rights. Furthermore, The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC)’s heightened focus on well usage, especially concerning exempt wells, underscores the increasing concerns about water rights and access. With stricter regulations and greater oversight, individual wells could face limitations or even increased restrictions moving forward.By joining a shared pipeline project, we secure a dependable water supply and sidestep potential future restrictions tied to individual wells. A collective system ensures long-term water access, bringing peace of mind as well as stability in the face of changing regulations.Investing in this pipeline not only safeguards your water rights and access but also enhances your property’s functionality and value. Moreover, it contributes to the broader water security of the entire community, making this project essential to complete!
How will the project enhance the value and usability of our properties?
Having reliable water access through a pipeline will greatly enhance the usability and overall value of our properties, even if you’re not planning to sell. Consistent water supply means improved conditions for landscaping, gardening, and agricultural activities, all of which increase the long-term enjoyment and sustainability of your property. Additionally, the security of knowing your land has reliable water access makes it more resilient in the face of future water challenges, offering peace of mind and boosting the quality of life for us all.
Will members have a say in how decisions are made during the project?
Absolutely! We want to make sure everyone’s voice is heard. We'll keep things transparent by putting everything in writing and making sure all members are informed. When it comes to important decisions, we’ll be asking for input through the website and email to gather feedback and take votes. This way, everyone gets a chance to share their thoughts and help shape the project.
How will having all members on the pipeline benefit wells for domestic use?
By delivering irrigation water through a dedicated pipeline, there will be less reliance on local groundwater wells for irrigation purposes. This reduces the demand on wells, helping to preserve groundwater levels and improve the availability of water for domestic use. In areas where over-pumping from wells is a concern, transitioning to a shared pipeline system can significantly reduce the risk of water shortages and the potential for well failure during dry periods.
How will existing easements be handled during the project?
Our goal is to get the water turned on as quickly and efficiently as possible. We understand that easements can be a sensitive topic, but we are committed to handling them with flexibility. We will adjust easements as needed—officially recording them with the relevant entities to ensure transparency, minimize disruptions, and address everyone’s concerns. The focus remains on moving forward together to get water flowing to all members without causing unnecessary issues.
How long will the pipeline last, and what are the maintenance considerations?
Modern pipelines can last several decades with minimal maintenance compared to open ditches. Regular inspections for leaks, sediment buildup, and any damage will be necessary, but buried pipelines generally require less frequent intervention.
What are the costs associated with building the pipeline, and how will they be shared among members?
The total cost of the pipeline will include expenses for materials, labor, permits, assessments, upkeep, and any engineering or design work. Project cost will be determined during the estimating phase and cost sharing discussions will follow.
Can we apply for state or federal funding to help with the cost?
Yes, there are grants and loans available for irrigation efficiency projects, including from agencies like the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). Although they are extremely competitive, we will research these opportunities to potentially help offset costs.
Will additional water rights be required, and how will the project affect existing rights?
The project will not require new water rights since we are not changing the water source or volume. However, any modifications to how the water is used or transferred might require permits from the DNRC. As for existing water rights, the project will not impact them as long as the water continues to be used for its current purposes (e.g., irrigation, domestic use). Ensuring that all members receive their entitled share of water is a primary reason for undertaking this endeavor.
How will water pressure and distribution to members be handled?
One of the benefits of burying a pipeline is improved water pressure and consistent delivery to all members. The pipeline will be engineered to have adequate capacity to meet peak irrigation demands and ensure uniform distribution.
Who is responsible for ongoing maintenance after it’s installed?
Maintenance responsibility falls to the lateral group or association managing the irrigation system. We will craft a clear agreement among members regarding maintenance duties, costs, and schedules.
Will this project change the way water is allocated to members?
The pipeline itself won't change the water allocation as the same system of rights will be respected. Careful planning and communication will be followed to ensure that all members receive their entitled amount of water.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].

Latest Project Updates


Upcoming
• Targeting Fall 2025 to Break Ground
In Progress - July / August 2025
• Writing and Sending Final Notices
• Finalizing Pipeline Design
• Developing Hydraulic Analysis
• Developing Water User Agreement
• Working closely with Daly Ditch on Project Timeline
May 2025
• Reaching out to surrounding neighbors of pipeline source point
• Designing informational postcards
• Acquiring estimates for installation
• Investigating potential grants for application
Mar 2025
• Discovered location of old take off
• Published map of proposed pipeline to the Pipeline Route page.
Sep 2024
• Website launched
• Several meetings with Daly Ditch covering the technical, legal, and administrative aspects of managing the irrigation system, setting the groundwork for automating water rights management and infrastructure improvements.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2025 GolfCourseWater.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].