The owner or owners of open ditches carrying irrigation or other water shall not be included in any rural improvement district under this part for the purpose of assessment to support the rural improvement district for the installation, repair, or maintenance of any protective devices intended to protect the safety of the public from open ditches carrying irrigation or other water. Such devices or improvements shall provide access to and shall not be constructed so as to hinder the operation and maintenance of the ditch.
§ 7-12-2152, MCA