Montana Title 85. Water Use § 85-7-1612. Board of control--powers and duties

(1) The board of control established by this part is the operating agent of the contracting districts for the operation and maintenance of irrigation and/or drainage works and the delivery of water therefrom.

(2) The board shall make and execute all necessary contracts; employ and appoint such agents, officers, and employees as may be required; and prescribe their duties.

(3) The board may institute and maintain any and all actions and proceedings and suits at law or in equity, necessary or proper in order to fully carry out the provisions of this chapter or to enforce, maintain, protect, or preserve any and all rights, privileges, and immunities created by this part or acquired in pursuance thereof. In all courts, suits, or proceedings, the board may sue, appear, and defend in person or by its attorneys and in the name of such board of control.

(4) The board may adopt rules and bylaws governing the calling and holding of meetings of the board; the manner of transacting business thereat; and the publishing or posting of the orders, resolutions, and proceedings of the board. The board shall pass or adopt bylaws and rules for the apportionment and distribution of water to the lands of the contracting districts and for the protection and preservation of the works and other property of the districts. All orders and resolutions shall be passed or adopted by a majority of the members of the board of control by a “yea” and “nay” vote, to be entered upon the records of the board.

(5) The board of control may perform all other acts necessary or appropriate to fully carry out the purposes of this part.

(6) The board of control may plan, acquire, construct, operate, maintain, lease, or finance an undertaking through the issuance of revenue bonds, as provided in part 14 of this chapter.