The DRWA consists of a group of counties and communities, working to bring good quality and quantity of household drinking water to their citizens. The rural residents in the area have some of the lowest income averages and highest poverty rates in the U.S.
Positive benefits of the system
Many positive long term economic impacts will be realized by the agricultural, energy, tourism and recreation industries of the area. The potential for good quality and quantity of water will allow businesses to build and develop - whether it is a grain or cattle processing facility or an energy related facility. The potential for new rural housing developments is increased.
There are a number of landowners in the service area that cannot live on the land or use their water due to poor water quality. This regional rural water system project will allow the rural user to have access to a reliable, safe, high quality water supply.
Eastern Montana has been experiencing economic depression and the economic benefits of construction employment would boost our rural communities immensely.
There are many potential benefits that will help our communities.
Improved quality of life associated with high quality safe drinking water: Health benefits of good water. More and more harmful chemicals (many carcinagens) are being found in our ground water all the time. Water from the system will meet the same standards as “town” water.
Reduction of costs associated with water: No need to drill or maintain a well. Discontinuing water softening, water treatment, and water hauling. No electrical pumping costs.
Fire Protection: Hydrants could be installed at various places for rapid, water refill for rural fire fighting.
Livestock Use: Backup in case of well failure. Adequate supply due to steady pressure. Increased weigh gains in calves. Possible cost share for delivery to pastures.
Spray Use: Fewer plugged nozzles. Potential reduction in chemical costs as result of increased spray efficiency. The system supplies a current analysis of water quality upon request to assist the user in proper mixing of chemicals. Better mixing of chemicals.
Increased resale value of the user’s property: Resale value may increase up to 10% of the property value of the homestead.
Improved potential for economic/community development: Demand readily available for quality and quantity of water. Construction employment.