“With initial authorization completed, it’s time to get the Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation to the table to move this project forward,” said Rehberg.  “As a member of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I’ll be able to ask questions that get at the heart of the project’s needs.  The Administration must be held accountable for helping fix this structure.”

            The 100-year old facilities provide water for 17,000 residents and 140,000 irrigated acres in Montana.  Located in western Glacier County, the system is used by the municipal water supplies of cities such as Havre, Chinook and Harlem, and is also a source of water for fish and wildlife.

            “St. Mary’s is a unique project requiring a unique approach,” said Larry Mires, executive director of the St. Mary’s Rehabilitation Working Group.  “However, we’ve been pleased with the cooperation we’ve received so far.  We’re confident that with Congressman Rehberg’s support we can get this project accomplished.”