Sidney Water Users Irrigation District History

• Infrastructure completed in 1938 as the Sidney Water Users Association Irrigation Project by the Montana Water Resources Board
• Sidney Water Users Irrigation District formed in 1995 after DNRC transferred ownership
• Primary purpose: Irrigation
• Acres Irrigated: 4,753
• Total Diversion (cfs): 133 (approx.)
• Primary Diversion Point: Yellowstone River

Project History

Since inception, repairs and replacements have been conducted within the system. In 1969, with assistance from the USDA Soil Conservation Service, improvements to intakes, expansion of canal systems and floodwater structures were completed over a five year period. Minimal large scale improvements were completed again until 2002, when the SWUID received a DNRC RRGL Grant, for Phase 1, which improved water delivery for Districts 1 and 2. The NRCS also assisted in development of alternatives and design. From 2006 to 2009 improvements were conducted, primarily with SWUID equipment. A second RRGL Grant was obtained to assist with Phase 2 improvements. In 2009, the SWUID determined to continue improvements to the system and Phase 3 was implemented, which largely had to do with inefficient earth lined canals and seepage issues.

This project upgraded many antiquated and inefficient delivery systems while improving in-stream flows in the Yellowstone River.

Work Breakdown

• Construction of two sections of PVC pipeline totaling 3.1 miles and the removal of inefficient earth lined canals

Project Funding

The total cost of the project was $594,585. To finance the project, the SWUID used the following grant and loan programs:

• USBR Watersmart & Energy Efficiency Grant: $297,292
  • Typically provides funding assistance up to $300,000
• DNRC RRGL: $200,000
  • Two grants at $100,000 secured for the project due to difference phases and components of projects
• SWUID Cash Match: $97,293

• NRCS: Technical Assistance
  • Engineering, drafting, and construction compliance
  • Not included in the total project cost

Project Status & Results

• Project began in 2011 with final completion in spring 2013
• Addressed significant canal leakage and water conservation issues

Project Partners

 Owner: Sidney Water Users Irrigation District

 Engineer: NRCS

 Contractor: SWUID equipment and labor