“Listing this project as a priority in the Administration’s budget is a huge win for Montana,” Rehberg said.  “Last year, I made a lot of noise on the Energy and Water Appropriations Committee for funding for this project, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the project is listed specifically this year.”

The Fort Peck/Dry Prairie Rural Water System was authorized by Congress in 2000 and when completed, it will serve over 30,000 residents in northeastern Montana and on the Fort Peck Reservation. 

“What gives? How do you establish what is going to be in the President’s budget, and what is not?” Rehberg directly asked the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, John Keys.  Rehberg pushed hard for answers since Colorado, South Dakota, and North Dakota all received rural water projects within the budget, excluding Montana.  This exchange occurred in March 2005 at the Bureau of Reclamation budget hearings before the Energy and Water Appropriations Committee.

Clint Jacobs, coordinator of the Dry Prairie Rural Water Project said, "We are absolutely elated to be included in the President's budget. Coupled with last year's $16 million appropriation, this news convinces us that Congressman Rehberg and our Senators have succeeded in making this project a national priority. We are so grateful for their commitment to making clean water a reality for tens of thousands of Montanans." 

Tom Escarcega, the Fort Peck Tribes’ Water Project Manager, stated that the Tribes are excited that the Project is included in this year’s budget., and also that the Tribes have been trying for a number years and greatly appreciate the hard work of Congressman Rehberg, and of Senator Burns and Senator Baucus in finally achieving this important step for the project.

“Overall, it represents a serious federal investment in the everyday lives of Montanans,” Rehberg said.  “The funding for water projects in particular is absolutely vital to many rural Montana communities.”