77-4-108. Water rights in connection with geothermal development. If any geothermal development located on state land requires the utilization of water, the lessee may, at any time prior to 1 year before the expiration of his lease, make application to the board for permission to secure a water right to the land under his lease. Such application shall be in writing, show the permanency of the water supply, and the estimated cost of utilizing such water resources. If the proposed plan meets with the approval of the board, permission shall be granted to the lessee to secure the desired water right for the land. Such right shall be secured in accordance with Title 85, chapter 2, and shall be filed in the name of the state. Existing water rights purchased by the geothermal lessee shall be the property of the lessee.

     History: En. 81-2611 by Sec. 11, Ch. 111, L. 1974; R.C.M. 1947, 81-2611.