Interior Dept. Raises Rates for Native American Water Systems
Published Date: 3/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The Bureau of Indian Affairs is updating the fees for irrigation projects on Indian reservations to cover costs like upkeep and repairs. These changes affect landowners using these irrigation systems and will take effect in 2027. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until May 22, 2026, to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.
Irrigation Rates Changing for 2027
The Bureau of Indian Affairs proposes new irrigation assessment rates that will take effect for calendar year (CY) 2027 and will apply to people who own or lease land inside an irrigation project’s assessable acreage or who have a carriage agreement. If you want to comment on the proposed changes, you must submit written comments on or before May 22, 2026.
Flathead Project Per-Acre and Minimum Charge Increases
For the Flathead Irrigation Project in Montana, the BIA proposes increases for CY2027: Basic per acre–A rises from $39.00 to $46.00, Basic per acre–B rises from $19.50 to $23.00, and the Minimum Charge per tract rises from $200.00 to $220.00. The notice also proposes changing the parcel-size threshold for the minimum charge from 4.54 acres (2026) to 4.78 acres (starting in 2027).
San Carlos Joint Works Rate Cut and Construction Water Fees
For the San Carlos Irrigation Project in Arizona, the BIA proposes lowering the Joint Works component from $28.00 per acre (2026) to $24.00 per acre (2027). The notice also lists a proposed Construction Water Rate Schedule with fees such as a $300 administrative fee, a $250 per month usage fee for off‑project gravity construction water, $100 per acre-foot for on‑project pump water, and an excess-water charge of $5.00 per 1,000 gallons for use above 50,000 gallons in any one month.
Late-Payment Penalties, Fees, and Collections
If your irrigation bill is past due, interest will accrue from the past-due date at the Treasury-established rate, bills more than 90 days past due may be assessed a penalty of up to 6% per year, each collection attempt carries an administrative fee of $12.50, and bills 120 days past due will be transferred to the U.S. Treasury for further action.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12968 — HEARTH Act Approval of Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community of the Colusa Rancheria, California, Leasing Ordinance
The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Rancheria in California got the green light to handle their own land leases starting June 22, 2026. This means they can now approve leases on their tribal lands without waiting for the federal government, speeding up homeownership and development. It’s a big win for the Tribe’s control over their land and future projects, with no extra state or local taxes on these leases.
2026-12969 — HEARTH Act Approval of Caddo Nation of Oklahoma Leasing Ordinance
The Caddo Nation of Oklahoma just got the green light to handle their own land leases without needing extra approval from the federal government. This means they can make deals faster and boost their community’s growth and independence starting June 22, 2026. It’s a big win for tribal self-rule and could open doors for new projects and opportunities on their land.
2026-11661 — Indian Gaming; Approval by Operation of Law of the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe and State of Washington Gaming Compact
The Upper Skagit Indian Tribe and Washington State’s gaming agreement just got an automatic green light! Starting June 11, 2026, electronic table games are officially allowed on the Tribe’s lands, thanks to a new amendment that went into effect without delay. This means more fun and new gaming options for players, with no extra waiting or paperwork needed.
2026-11005 — HEARTH Act Approval of Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma Business Leasing Ordinance
The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma got the green light to handle their own business leases on tribal land starting May 21, 2026. This means they can make deals faster without needing extra approval from the federal government, boosting their control and economic growth. Plus, state and local taxes won’t apply to these leases, helping the Tribe keep more money in their community.
2026-10861 — Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians of California; Liquor Control Ordinance
The Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians of California just passed a new Liquor Control Ordinance that lets them regulate alcohol sales and use on their tribal lands, including Vallejo County. This means tribal businesses and special events can sell liquor legally, helping boost tribal government funds and services. The new rules kick in on June 1, 2026, opening fresh opportunities for the tribe’s economy and community.
2026-10421 — Pueblo of Taos, New Mexico; Liquor Ordinance Amendment
The Pueblo of Taos in New Mexico updated its liquor rules to better control alcohol use, sales, and production on their land. These changes, effective May 26, 2026, affect everyone living in or visiting the Pueblo and may include new fees or regulations. This update helps the Pueblo protect its community while managing alcohol responsibly.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05575 — Announcement of Public Hearing
The National Commission on the Future of the Navy is holding a public hearing on March 25, 2026, to gather ideas from Congress and experts about the Navy’s future. This hearing will shape important decisions about fleet size, shipbuilding, and personnel, affecting how the Navy stays strong and ready. Anyone interested can attend or submit their thoughts by giving advance notice.
Next: 2026-05578 — Closing the Gap: Addressing Declining Black Male Enrollment at HBCUs and Other Colleges
Black male students are enrolling less at HBCUs and other colleges, and that’s a big problem. The government is stepping in with new plans like better financial aid, stronger school programs, and more support for HBCUs to fix this starting now. These changes aim to boost enrollment and help Black men succeed in school and beyond.