This bill appropriates $75,000 from the general fund to the agriculture commissioner for a one-time study on the potential benefits of expanding irrigation in North Dakota. The funding is designated for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, and will be used to contract with a consultant. The study will focus on various aspects, including the economic benefits of increased irrigation, the consequences of not implementing irrigation infrastructure as per the Pick-Sloan Flood Control Act of 1944, and comparisons between irrigated and non-irrigated land, as well as subsurface water management systems.

Additionally, the agriculture commissioner is exempt from state purchasing practices when contracting for the study. The findings and recommendations from the study, along with any proposed legislation needed to implement these recommendations, must be presented to the legislative management by July 1, 2026.