Every state officer, department, board, and commission authorized by any law of this state to take any action, perform any duties, or make any contract concerning the use or disposition of waters, or water rights, within the state first shall submit to the department of water resources any plans, purposes, and contemplated action with respect to the use or disposition of the waters, and except as provided in this chapter, must receive the consent and approval of the department of water resources before making any agreement, contract, purchase, sale, or lease to carry into execution any works or projects authorized under the provisions of this chapter.
N.D.C.C. § 61-02-26