Tribal Water Resources.
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Water Resources Department (TWRD) and Commission (TWRC) operates under an integrated, cohesive management system that coordinates water quantity and water quality considerations in order to protect against surface and groundwater degradation. TWRD & TWRC also sets priorities for water use that include: domestic, municipal, cultural, religious, agricultural, wildlife, commercial and industrial purposes; provides for the fair administration of water rights on the Fort Hall Reservation, for the present and future, in order to maintain or improve the quality and way of life for all residents of the Fort Hall Reservation.
Tribal Water Resources Department (TWRD) and Commission (TWRC).
In 1985 the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes initiated legal proceedings to perfect water rights for the Fort Hall Reservation. After five years of intense negotiations, the 1990 Fort Hall Indian Water Rights Agreement was signed, recognizing the Tribes’ right to water in the Upper Snake River Basin. This Water Rights Agreement solidifies the Tribes’ right to manage and protect water resources.
The Tribal Water Resource Department and Tribal Water Resource Commission were established in 1998, to oversee, manage and ensure the provisions of the 1990 Water rights Agreement are being implemented.
History and Direction.
Foundation.
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Water Resource Department (TWRD) was established in 1998, as mandated by Congress in the 1990 Fort Hall Indian Water Rights Agreement.
Importance of Water.
The TWRD and TWRC have a tremendous respect for the importance of water resources and recognize that water is sacred and the lifeblood for the livelihood of all living things.
Legal Responsibility.
The TWRD is responsible for the protection of water rights and administration of water use on the Fort Hall Reservation. The TWRC provides policy direction and enforcement authority over tribal water rights issues on the reservation.
Water Quality Program (WQP).
The purpose of the WQP is to maintain and restore the physical, chemical and biological integrity of the reservation’s water bodies and to ensure a safe source of drinking water for reservation residents.
Resources and Documents.
The Water Code provides the Tribes authority to manage its water rights and adopt regulations to assist in management of water resources. The TWRD has a general inventory of all water uses underway. Development of new uses, such as a new well requires a Water Use Permit.
You will find all documents and forms to request our services within the tabs, simply download the form and then complete and return to us. If you have any questions please call us at (208)239-4580.
Department of Interior Approval.
In 2007, the U.S. Department of Interior approved the Tribes’ Water Code. It established the TWRC’s powers, duties and responsibilities, as well as codifying the TWRD’s authority to manage water resources on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.
That authority includes issuing water use permits and permits for wells and septic systems. The TWRC also participates in ongoing activities with other agencies such as the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service.