The Blackfeet Nation of Montana walked out of a water talks meeting on Thursday.
Tribal leaders abruptly left the negotiating session in Helena, the state capitol. At issue, according to state officials, is the status of a water system that draws water from the reservation.
In particular, tribal leaders were "extremely upset" with legislation introduced by Sen. Max Baucus (D-Montana) to authorize $140 million for the St. Mary Canal project. The tribe wants its water rights settled before that project moves forward, a state official said.
Later in the day, Baucus spoke with Blackfeet Chairman Earl Old Person. A spokesperson for Baucus said the two had a "very cordial conversation" and that Baucus is encouraging the tribe to return to the table.
Get the Story:
Blackfeet water-rights negotiations stall over St. Mary Canal provisions
(The Great Falls Tribune 4/13)
State, Blackfeet water negotiation over for now (The Missoulian 4/13)
Relevant Links:
Blackfeet Nation -
http://www.blackfeetnation.comMontana
Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission -
http://dnrc.mt.gov/rwrcc
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