We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
Siphons have arrived at Babb Montana and are being put in place. Welders are working around the clock to connect the new siphons for the Milk River Project.
Work at Babb, Montana on the St. Mary's Siphon Project is moving forward on schedule according to Project Director Jennifer Patrick. "All of the excavation phase is completed and the siphon pipes are starting to arrive," said Patrick.
The pipe is 7.5 feet in diameter and arrives in different lengths due to the connections, some as much as 40 feet. Pro-Pipe Corporation based in Huson, Montana is making the pipe. "We get about 6 pipes a day," said Patrick, "about 1000 feet a day." Around 3200 feet of pipe will be needed to complete the project, two thirds of a mile. There will be 160 pieces delivered. The pipe is similar in size to the old siphons.
The piping is put in place where the old siphons were, and welders are working daily to connect the pipe, inside and out. Welding a joint takes about a day, inside and out, with four welders on each joint. Special shelters have also been built to cover the pipe so welding can continue into the colder months.
Routine maintenance work continues on the canals so they are ready to go when the water starts flowing. Work on the diversion dam is also on target. This will be a four-year project. Construction on the new bridge also continues.
Farmers and ranchers who have been affected by the siphon failure can now apply for assistance through the St. Mary's Targeted Implementation Plan. Farmers and ranchers in Hill, Blaine, Glacier, Phillips and Valley Counties, including Fort Belknap Indian Community and the Blackfeet Nation are eligible through the USDA NRCS St. Mary's Initiative. Visit your local NRCS office to get started. The application deadline is Feb. 28, 2025.
