The Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division meeting held on March 11, 2025, focused on the ongoing Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project. This initiative began after the devastating flood of 2011 and has evolved under the guidance of various state and local entities.

The project was initially led by the State Water Commission during Governor Dalrymple's administration, with master plans developed and delivered in 2012 and 2013. In 2014, control of the project transitioned to the Souris River Joint Board, which has since taken the lead in advancing the project with significant backing from the State of North Dakota and the City of Minot.

The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts involving multiple funding partners, including Renville County, Ward County, McHenry County, Bottineau County, as well as federal support from the Corps of Engineers and the Department of Defense. This partnership underscores the importance of community and governmental collaboration in addressing flood protection and enhancing safety for residents in the affected areas.

As the project progresses, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring its successful implementation, which is crucial for the long-term resilience of the region against future flooding events.