Notwithstanding the plans and specifications of state water commission project no. 1736, as authorized in this chapter, the state water commission may include as part of the southwest pipeline project the delivery of water from southwest pipeline facilities to areas in Dunn County, Mercer County, and Oliver County and plan, design, integrate, incorporate, construct, operate, and maintain necessary facilities for this purpose as part of the southwest pipeline project, consistent with this chapter. The exercise of this authority must be in the manner and time the commission deems appropriate.
N.D.C.C. § 61-24.3-21