Montana Title 7. Local Government § 7-31-4206. Procedure to maintain open ditch

(1) If a person claims that the water has not been abandoned and claims the right to use water in a ditch that the city or town has declared a public nuisance, the person shall notify the city or town before the expiration of the 60-day period that the person wishes to continue the use of the water within the city or town and that the person, individually or with others, will provide protective devices as ordered by the city or town.

(2) If notice is given, the person or persons claiming the water right or rights has a period not to exceed 6 months to remove the public nuisance in the manner ordered by the city or town.

(3) If the city or town approves the work, it shall permit the water to flow into the city or town. If the protective device is not provided or if it does not meet specifications required by the city or town, the city or town may designate the ditch abandoned and order it closed or filled when the 6-month period ends.