Mont. Water Right Claim Examination R. 32

RULE 32(a). Purpose of public meetings. The department, if

directed by the water court pursuant to § 85-2-243, may conduct

public meetings in each basin or subbasin. The purpose of these

meetings may include:

(1) gathering facts and data related to flow rate, volume,

and period of use for irrigation that may include the usual and

customary method of irrigation, crops grown, and growing season

within a basin or subbasin;

(2) gathering facts and data related to flow rate, volume,

and period of use for other uses of water within a basin or

subbasin; and

(3) gathering facts and data addressing any other specific

issues that may affect the basin or subbasin.

RULE 32(b). Public meetings in conjunction with water

court. The department may conduct public meetings in each

basin or subbasin to provide the public with information on

availability of materials at the regional offices and any technical

information or procedures used by the department during

examination. These meetings may be held in conjunction with the

water court.

RULE 32(c). Time and place. Public meetings will be held at

a time and place appropriate to the material being presented and

convenient to the participants.

RULE 32(d). Notice. Meetings will be announced using one

or more of the following: radio stations, newspapers, or television

stations which have general coverage in the appropriate area. In

addition, notices may be posted in various public locations in the

area. The water court will be notified in writing at least 10

working days prior to announcement.