This bill amends Section 42-909 of the Idaho Code, focusing on the management of distributing laterals, ditches, and other conduits related to irrigation. Key changes include the insertion of terms such as "ditch" and "other conduit" to clarify the types of water conveyance systems covered under this section. Additionally, it specifies that if parties using a main ditch, canal, or other conduit do not appoint a manager for the distributing lateral, the watermaster can appoint one upon request. If an irrigation district, canal company, or other irrigation entity owns the main water source, the board of directors of that entity is empowered to make the appointment.

The bill also addresses the compensation of the appointed manager, stating that it will be determined by the watermaster or the board of directors of the owning entity, depending on the circumstances. It outlines the process for prorating the manager's compensation among the parties using the distributing lateral based on the number of acres irrigated. Furthermore, it establishes a timeline for payment, indicating that if parties fail to remit payment by the delinquency date for irrigation district assessments, the manager may collect the owed amounts. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 42-909