The commission, as in its judgment the interests of the state and the water user entities of the southwest pipeline project are best served, shall determine the pipeline construction standards to be utilized for the southwest pipeline project. In making its determination, the commission shall consider cost, maintenance, life of pipelines, and other factors it deems appropriate.
61-24.3-10. Commission to construct, operate, and maintain southwest pipeline project - Rules made by commission. The commission shall have the authority to: 1. Construct the southwest pipeline project as provided in this chapter. 2. Operate and maintain, or provide for the operation and maintenance of the southwest pipeline project. 3. Exercise all express and implied rights, powers, and authorities, including all powers and authorities granted in chapter 61-02, necessary to carry out the provisions and purposes of this chapter. 4. Make and enforce orders, rules, and bylaws for the operation and maintenance of the southwest pipeline project. 5. Sell, transfer, or exchange property acquired for the southwest pipeline project provided the commission determines the property is not necessary for the operation, maintenance, or construction of the southwest pipeline project. For a period of sixty days, the property must first be offered for sale, transfer, or exchange to the current owner of the surrounding property from which the property was obtained. Any parcel of property sold, transferred, or exchanged under this section may not exceed two acres [.81 hectare]. Sections 54-01-05.2 and 54-01-05.5 do not apply to the sale, transfer, or exchange of property pursuant to this subsection.