membership
Membership Open
Welcome to the Dakota Mainstem Regional Water System Membership information page. With the Appraisal Study complete as of January 2026, membership is currently open for inclusion in the Feasibility Study. DMRWS Membership gives regional communities and water systems an opportunity to join the project before detailed modeling and design work begins, strengthening regional representation and overall project support.
Below, we outline Feasibility Study inclusion, membership benefits, and investment.
Feasibility Study Inclusion
Joining before October 1, 2026, secures your water system’s inclusion in the Feasibility Study, ensuring your specific needs shape the future of Dakota Mainstem.
Membership Benefits
As a Dakota Mainstem member, you will be eligible to appoint a director to the board, allowing your water system’s voice is heard in decision-making processes.
Furthermore, participation in the Feasibility Study ensures that your specific water needs are addressed, regulatory and compliance issues are identified early, and cost allocations are determined upfront. Ultimately, your partnership strengthens regional representation, which is vital for securing local, state, and federal funding.
Our organizational structure includes regular board meetings at least three times per year, complemented by an Annual Meeting in February or March. Additionally, a smaller internally elected executive committee meets monthly to oversee day-to-day operations, allowing the Board to focus on broader strategic issues.
Membership Investment & Rates
The 2026 rate structure allows for a retroactive payment structure for applicants following the Appraisal Study. Under this policy, new members are responsible for the dues they would have accrued starting from 2024. Dakota Mainstem is also actively pursuing grants and funding mechanisms to keep these amounts as minimal as possible. Rates and/or dues structures are periodically reviewed, approved, and authorized by the Board of Directors.
Why Join Now?
History has demonstrated that early participants in largescale water projects like Dakota Mainstem often reap substantial benefits in terms of influence over the project's direction and financial savings.
Looking Forward
Your interest in Dakota Mainstem signifies your commitment to the growth and development of efficient and sustainable water sources and delivery systems in our region. Join us in this exciting venture to shape our region’s water management future.
Thank you for considering Dakota Mainstem Regional Water System as a partner in your water system's future.
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN!
Membership Application Process
To begin your application with Dakota Mainstem, please complete the online membership application form. If you prefer a PDF version, contact Kurt Pfeifle at kpfeifle@dmrws.com .
Once submitted, the Dakota Mainstem Membership Committee will carefully review your application and recommend acceptance based on our membership criteria. The Board of Directors will then consider approval. You will be informed about any applicable initiation and/or annual dues or fees (if any) should your membership be accepted.
It is recommended that you request and carefully review a copy of the Dakota Mainstem bylaws. By familiarizing yourself with the bylaws, you will gain insight into the structure, policies, and procedures that guide our operations. You can easily obtain a copy by reaching out to Dakota Mainstem - you will promptly receive the necessary documentation. We encourage you to use this opportunity to equip yourself with essential knowledge about the organization as you proceed with your application process.
Please note that any application submitted after October 1, 2026, will NOT be included in the Dakota Mainstem Feasibility Study. New members may still be considered for inclusion in future phases.
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