Strategies for community and industry water management in the oil producing region of North Dakota

Abstract

North Dakota's Bakken region has surged to become an important oil-producing region. One of the key concerns for ensuring sustained growth in this region is the availability of water. This paper will review current water management practices and review alternative policies with special attention to the needs of North Dakota's rural communities. Although the region is semi-arid, there is an abundance of water available in the Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea. Efforts to utilize available water have been impaired by the US Army Corps of Engineers' reservoir management polices as well as difficulties in constructing infrastructure during boom drilling. North Dakota was fortunate to dedicate oil revenue for water development. In addition, the expansion of regional water systems has been partially funded by sales to drilling operations. These water systems will benefit both industry and local communities.