North Dakota law, under NDAC Section 89-11, provides the Department of Water Resources with the ability to provide cost-share assistance to livestock producers experiencing water supply shortages caused by drought.
2026 Drought Program Funding Update
All available program funding has now been committed, and DWR is no longer accepting new applications.
The State Water Commission approved a total of $4 million for eligible livestock water supply projects following the program's reactivation on August 18, 2026. The program was expanded to include eligible producers in all 53 North Dakota counties in response to strong demand.
DWR appreciates the tremendous response to the program and the opportunity to work with more than 400 North Dakota livestock producers during this challenging drought. Drought conditions will continue to be monitored throughout the winter and spring.
Program Information
Livestock producers in all North Dakota counties were eligible to apply for up to $10,000 in cost-share assistance per project, for up to three projects, for eligible livestock water supply improvements. Eligible projects included:
- New water wells;
- New rural water system connections;
- New pipeline extensions, pasture taps, and associated works; and
- Contract labor, materials, and equipment rentals for work completed by the producer to develop new water supply projects.
Cost-share payments made through this program can be considered taxable income. Successful applicants will need to submit IRS Form W-9 upon completion of their projects before program reimbursement can be made.
Supporting Documents
Form W-9 (Request For Taxpayer Identification Number And Certification) (PDF)
North Dakota Rural Water Districts & Association Map (PDF)
Program Administrative Code (Website)
North Dakota Certified Water Well Contractors List (Database)
North Dakota Livestock Drought Resources (NDSU Website)
Information
For more information, contact the Planning & Education Division at (701) 328-4959 or e-mail.