The Golf Course Road Pipeline is a newly formed member organization charged with constructing and maintaining a pipeline of irrigation water for select properties along the SK-024 Daly Ditch lateral so that we can realize our water rights and improve the value of our property. You may use this site to stay informed and ensure you're part of the progress as we move forward with this project.
© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
We have researched and compiled the latest information on each property within the lateral for your review below.
*A miner’s inch is a historical unit used in irrigation water rights in Montana and other western states. It measures the flow rate of water. In Montana, 1 miner's inch equals 11.5 gallons per minute. The measurement originates from mining but is now commonly used to define water rights for agricultural purposes. It’s important for irrigation because our water rights are allocated based on the number of miner’s inches a landowner is entitled to, which impacts the volume of water we can divert for use.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Introduction
This analysis evaluates the proposed gravity-fed irrigation pipeline for 17 water users along the SK-024 Daly Ditch lateral in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana. The pipeline conveys water from an open irrigation ditch (source) at elevation 4081 ft through a mainline that passes directly through each user's property. All calculations utilize the Hazen-Williams equation with standard parameters for HDPE pipe systems.
Basis
This analysis utilizes industry-standard hydraulic principles and the Hazen-Williams equation with typical roughness coefficients for HDPE pipe materials. Calculations assume design conditions and parameters as provided in the project specifications. Field conditions may vary, and actual performance should be verified during commissioning.
Hazen-Williams Equation for friction loss:
Pd = 4.52 × (Q1.85) / (C1.85 × dh^4.8655)Where:
Pd = pressure drop per foot of pipe (psi/ft)
Q = flow rate (GPM)
C = roughness coefficient (140 for HDPE)
dh = internal pipe diameter (inches)Key Design Values:
• Source elevation: 4,081 ft
• Total system flow: 580 GPM
• Pressure conversion: 0.433 psi per foot of elevation
• HDPE pipe with SDR 17 (125 psi rating)
• Internal diameters: 12"=11.77", 10"=9.76", 8"=7.92", 6"=6.04", 4"=4.20", 2"=1.95"Note: Static pressure represents the maximum pressure with no water flowing. Dynamic pressure represents the expected pressure under worst-case conditions when all users are simultaneously drawing their maximum water allocation. No valve/elbow minor losses have been included.
1135 Golf Course (Segment: #1) - Source To User 1
Results Summary (User 1 at 1135 Golf Course Road):
- Mainline Pipe: 10-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 5,966 feet
- Flow Velocity: 2.49 ft/s (in 10″ pipe)
- Friction Loss (this segment): 5.74 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss (to this point): 5.74 psi
- Static Pressure at User 1: 54.99 psi (no flow)
- Dynamic Pressure at User 1: 49.23 psi (all users drawing)
- Recommended Riser Size: 6-inch diameter (serving 288 GPM at 3.23 ft/s)Segment Parameters & Calculations:
- Length: 5,966 ft
- Pipe Size: 10″ HDPE (ID = 9.76″)
- Flow (Q): 580 GPM
- Elevation: 4,081 ft at source → 3,954 ft at User 1 (drop of 127 ft from source)Static Pressure:
At User 1's riser elevation (3,954 ft), the static head from the 4,081 ft source is 127 ft.
Static P = 127 ft × 0.433 psi/ft ≈ 54.99 psiFlow Velocity:
Internal diameter = 9.76″ = 0.813 ft
Area = π × (0.813/2)² = 0.519 ft²
Flow in cfs = 580 GPM ÷ 448.8 = 1.292 cfs
V = Q/A = 1.292 cfs ÷ 0.519 ft² ≈ 2.49 ft/sFriction Loss (Hazen–Williams):
Using C = 140, d = 9.76″:
Q^1.85 = 580^1.85 ≈ 1.2952 × 10^5
C^1.85 = 140^1.85 ≈ 9.340 × 10^3
d^4.8655 = 9.76^4.8655 ≈ 6.5188 × 10^4Pressure drop per foot:
P~d~ = 4.52 × 1.2952 × 10^5 / (9.340 × 10^3 × 6.5188 × 10^4) ≈ 0.000961 psi/ftSegment friction loss:
0.000961 psi/ft × 5,966 ft ≈ 5.74 psi
Cumulative friction (to User 1): 5.74 psi (since this is the first segment)Dynamic Pressure at User 1:
Dynamic pressure = Static pressure – mainline friction losses (to this point) – riser losses.Riser friction loss: For 288 GPM through a 6″ riser (6 ft vertical):
P~d,riser~ ≈ 0.002720 psi/ft × 6 ft = 0.0163 psiDynamic @ User 1: 54.99 psi – 5.74 psi – 0.016 psi ≈ 49.23 psiRiser Sizing:X | Option 1: 4″ riser (nominal) – Not recommended (high velocity)
Area = π × (4.20″/12/2)² = 0.0963 ft²
Flow = 288 GPM = 0.642 cfs
Velocity = 0.642 / 0.0963 = 6.67 ft/s (too high; >5 ft/s)✓ | Option 2: 6″ riser – Recommended (adequate diameter)
Area = π × (6.04″/12/2)² = 0.199 ft²
Flow = 0.642 cfs
Velocity = 0.642 / 0.199 = 3.23 ft/s (within acceptable range)
1093 Golf Course (Segment #2) - User 1 to User 2
Results Summary (User 2 at 1093 Golf Course Road):
- Mainline Pipe: 8-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 840 feet
- Flow Velocity: 1.90 ft/s (in 8″ pipe)
- Friction Loss (this segment): 0.63 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss (to this point): 6.37 psi
- Static Pressure at User 2: 58.46 psi (no flow)
- Dynamic Pressure at User 2: 52.07 psi (all users drawing)
- Recommended Riser Size: 3-inch diameter (serving 53 GPM at 2.27 ft/s)Segment Parameters & Calculations:
- Length: 840 ft
- Pipe Size: 8″ HDPE (ID = 7.92″)
- Flow (Q): 292 GPM (remaining flow after User 1's 288 GPM is taken)
- Elevation: 3,954 ft → 3,946 ft (User 2 elevation)
- Total drop from source: 4,081 – 3,946 = 135 ftStatic Pressure:
At elevation 3,946 ft, drop from source = 135 ft.
Static P = 135 ft × 0.433 psi/ft ≈ 58.46 psiFlow Velocity:
ID = 7.92″ = 0.660 ft
Area = π × (0.660/2)² = 0.342 ft²
Flow = 292 GPM = 0.651 cfs
V = 0.651 cfs ÷ 0.342 ft² ≈ 1.90 ft/sFriction Loss (Hazen–Williams):
Using C = 140, d = 7.92″:
Q^1.85 = 292^1.85 ≈ 3.639 × 10^4
C^1.85 = 140^1.85 ≈ 9.340 × 10^3
d^4.8655 = 7.92^4.8655 ≈ 2.3591 × 10^4Pressure drop per foot:
P~d~ = 4.52 × 3.639 × 10^4 / (9.340 × 10^3 × 2.3591 × 10^4) ≈ 0.000746 psi/ftSegment friction loss:
0.000746 psi/ft × 840 ft ≈ 0.63 psi
Cumulative friction (to User 2): 5.74 psi + 0.63 psi ≈ 6.37 psiDynamic Pressure at User 2:
Riser friction: For 53 GPM through a 3″ riser (6 ft rise):
P~d,riser~ ≈ 0.00310 psi/ft × 6 ft = 0.019 psiDynamic @ User 2: 58.46 psi – 6.37 psi – 0.019 psi ≈ 52.07 psiRiser Sizing:X | Option 1: 2″ riser – Not recommended (high velocity & friction)
Area = π × (1.95″/12/2)² = 0.0209 ft²
Flow = 53 GPM = 0.118 cfs
Velocity = 0.118 / 0.0209 = 5.69 ft/s (under 7 ft/s but higher friction loss)✓ | Option 2: 3″ riser – Recommended
Area = π × (3.00″–3.10″ ID / 12 / 2)² ≈ 0.052 ft² (using typical ID ≈ 3.07″)
Flow = 0.118 cfs
Velocity = 0.118 / 0.052 ≈ 2.27 ft/s (efficient, low loss)
1073 Golf Course Turnout (Segment #3) - User 3 to Turnout
Results Summary (Turnout at 1073 GCR, User 3):
- Mainline Pipe: 8-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 33 feet
- Flow Velocity: 1.56 ft/s (in 8″ pipe)
- Friction Loss (this segment): 0.02 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss (to this point): 6.39 psi
- Static Pressure at Turnout: 58.46 psi (no flow)
- Dynamic Pressure at Turnout: 52.03 psi (all users drawing)
- Recommended Turnout/Riser Size: 4-inch diameter (serving 184 GPM at 4.26 ft/s)Segment Parameters & Calculations:
- Length: 33 ft
- Pipe Size: 8″ HDPE (ID = 7.92″)
- Flow (Q): 239 GPM (remaining flow after User 2's 53 GPM is taken)
- Elevation: 3,946 ft (no significant change across this short run; ~135 ft drop from source)Static Pressure:
At the 1073 GCR turnout elevation (≈3,946 ft, same as User 2):
Static ≈ 58.46 psi (as calculated above)Flow Velocity:
ID = 0.660 ft; Area = 0.342 ft² (for 8″ pipe)
Flow = 239 GPM = 0.532 cfs
V = 0.532 ÷ 0.342 ≈ 1.56 ft/sFriction Loss (Hazen–Williams):
C = 140, d = 7.92″:
Q^1.85 = 239^1.85 ≈ 2.5121 × 10^4
C^1.85 = 9.340 × 10^3 (constant)
d^4.8655 = 2.3591 × 10^4 (for 7.92″ pipe)Pressure drop per foot:
P~d~ = 4.52 × 2.5121 × 10^4 / (9.340 × 10^3 × 2.3591 × 10^4) ≈ 0.000515 psi/ftSegment friction loss:
0.000515 psi/ft × 33 ft ≈ 0.02 psi
Cumulative friction (to Turnout): 6.37 psi + 0.02 psi ≈ 6.39 psiDynamic Pressure at 1073 GCR Turnout (User 3):
Turnout riser friction: For 184 GPM through a 4″ riser (6 ft rise):
P~d,riser~ ≈ 0.00695 psi/ft × 6 ft = 0.042 psiDynamic @ Turnout: 58.46 psi – 6.39 psi – 0.042 psi ≈ 52.03 psiTurnout Riser Sizing (User 3):X | Option 1: 3″ riser – Not recommended (excessive velocity)
Area = 0.0521 ft²; Flow = 184 GPM = 0.410 cfs
Velocity = 0.410 / 0.0521 ≈ 7.87 ft/s (above the 7 ft/s guideline)✓ | Option 2: 4″ riser – Recommended
Area = 0.0963 ft²; Flow = 0.410 cfs
Velocity = 0.410 / 0.0963 ≈ 4.26 ft/s (acceptable range)
1075 Golf Course (Segment #4) - Turnout to User 4
Results Summary (User 4 at 1075 Golf Course Road):
- Mainline Pipe: 6-inch HDPE
- Segment Length: 627 feet
- Flow Velocity: 0.62 ft/s (in 6″ pipe)
- Friction Loss (this segment): 0.08 psi
- Cumulative Friction Loss (to this point): 6.47 psi
- Static Pressure at User 4: 65.38 psi (no flow)
- Dynamic Pressure at User 4: 58.89 psi (all users drawing)
- Recommended Riser Size: 3-inch diameter (serving 55 GPM at 2.35 ft/s)Segment Parameters & Calculations:
- Length: 627 ft
- Pipe Size: 6″ HDPE (ID = 6.04″)
- Flow (Q): 55 GPM (remaining flow after User 3's 184 GPM turnout is taken)
- Elevation: 3,930 ft at User 4 (drop from source = 4,081 – 3,930 = 151 ft total)Static Pressure:
At elevation 3,930 ft, drop from 4,081 ft source = 151 ft.
Static P = 151 ft × 0.433 psi/ft ≈ 65.38 psiFlow Velocity:
ID = 6.04″ = 0.503 ft
Area = π × (0.503/2)² = 0.199 ft²
Flow = 55 GPM = 0.1225 cfs
V = 0.1225 ÷ 0.199 ≈ 0.62 ft/s
(This low velocity reflects the much smaller flow now that no downstream segment exists.)Friction Loss (Hazen–Williams):
C = 140, d = 6.04″:
Q^1.85 = 55^1.85 ≈ 1.6583 × 10^3
C^1.85 = 9.340 × 10^3 (constant)
d^4.8655 = 6.04^4.8655 ≈ 6.312 × 10^3Pressure drop per foot:
P~d~ = 4.52 × 1.6583 × 10^3 / (9.340 × 10^3 × 6.312 × 10^3) ≈ 0.000127 psi/ftSegment friction loss:
0.000127 psi/ft × 627 ft ≈ 0.08 psi
Cumulative friction (to User 4): 6.39 psi + 0.08 psi ≈ 6.47 psiDynamic Pressure at User 4:
Riser friction: For 55 GPM through a 3″ riser (6 ft):
P~d,riser~ ≈ 0.00332 psi/ft × 6 ft = 0.020 psiDynamic @ User 4: 65.38 psi – 6.47 psi – 0.020 psi ≈ 58.89 psiRiser Sizing:X | Option 1: 2″ riser – Not recommended (higher velocity & friction)
Area = 0.0209 ft²; Flow = 55 GPM = 0.123 cfs
Velocity = 0.123 / 0.0209 ≈ 5.91 ft/s (below 7 ft/s but higher head loss)✓ | Option 2: 3″ riser – Recommended
Area = 0.0521 ft²
Velocity = 0.123 / 0.0521 ≈ 2.35 ft/s (low velocity, minimal loss)
Maintenance Considerations
Essential Annual Tasks:
• Spring commissioning: Exercise valves and check for winter damage
• Fall winterization: Drain all low points before freezing temperaturesWinterization Requirements:
• Minimum burial depth of 48 inches provides frost protection
• Install drain valves at all low points
• Compressed air purging may be required for complete drainage
System Longevity & Performance
This gravity-fed pipeline system is designed to provide reliable irrigation water delivery for decades with proper maintenance. HDPE pipe systems typically have a service life of 50-100 years when properly installed and maintained. The SDR 17 rating (125 psi) provides a safety factor of 2.5x over the maximum operating pressure of 50 psi.Key factors ensuring long-term performance:
• HDPE material is corrosion-resistant and handles ground movement well
• Telescoping design maintains optimal flow velocities throughout the system
• All pressures remain well below pipe pressure ratingsThe calculated hydraulic performance assumes clean pipe conditions and design flows. Actual field performance may vary based on:• Simultaneous water usage patterns
• Seasonal variations in source water availability
• Long-term biofilm development (minimal in HDPE)
• Accuracy of elevation survey dataField verification during commissioning will confirm actual system performance and allow for any necessary adjustments to meet design objectives.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Who can I contact for more information or updates about the pipeline project?The Mestons of 1075 Golf Course Road are spearheading the pipeline project and will continue to provide regular updates to all members. If you have additional questions or need more information, please register at the link below and email [email protected] to get in touch.
How do we ensure that we don’t lose our water rights?In Montana, water rights may be abandoned if they go unused for an extended period, or if there is no clear intention to use them. To prevent forfeiture, it's crucial to continuously exercise these rights. Furthermore, The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC)’s heightened focus on well usage, especially concerning exempt wells, underscores the increasing concerns about water rights and access. With stricter regulations and greater oversight, individual wells could face limitations or even increased restrictions moving forward.By joining a shared pipeline project, we secure a dependable water supply and sidestep potential future restrictions tied to individual wells. A collective system ensures long-term water access, bringing peace of mind as well as stability in the face of changing regulations.Investing in this pipeline not only safeguards your water rights and access but also enhances your property’s functionality and value. Moreover, it contributes to the broader water security of the entire community, making this project essential to complete!
How will the project enhance the value and usability of our properties?Having reliable water access through a pipeline will greatly enhance the usability and overall value of our properties, even if you’re not planning to sell. Consistent water supply means improved conditions for landscaping, gardening, and agricultural activities, all of which increase the long-term enjoyment and sustainability of your property. Additionally, the security of knowing your land has reliable water access makes it more resilient in the face of future water challenges, offering peace of mind and boosting the quality of life for us all.
Will members have a say in how decisions are made during the project?Absolutely! We want to make sure everyone’s voice is heard. We'll keep things transparent by putting everything in writing and making sure all members are informed. When it comes to important decisions, we’ll be asking for input through the website and email to gather feedback and take votes. This way, everyone gets a chance to share their thoughts and help shape the project.
How will having all members on the pipeline benefit wells for domestic use?By delivering irrigation water through a dedicated pipeline, there will be less reliance on local groundwater wells for irrigation purposes. This reduces the demand on wells, helping to preserve groundwater levels and improve the availability of water for domestic use. In areas where over-pumping from wells is a concern, transitioning to a shared pipeline system can significantly reduce the risk of water shortages and the potential for well failure during dry periods.
How will existing easements be handled during the project?Our goal is to get the water turned on as quickly and efficiently as possible. We understand that easements can be a sensitive topic, but we are committed to handling them with flexibility. We will adjust easements as needed—officially recording them with the relevant entities to ensure transparency, minimize disruptions, and address everyone’s concerns. The focus remains on moving forward together to get water flowing to all members without causing unnecessary issues.
How long will the pipeline last, and what are the maintenance considerations?Modern pipelines can last several decades with minimal maintenance compared to open ditches. Regular inspections for leaks, sediment buildup, and any damage will be necessary, but buried pipelines generally require less frequent intervention.
What are the costs associated with building the pipeline, and how will they be shared among members?The total cost of the pipeline will include expenses for materials, labor, permits, assessments, upkeep, and any engineering or design work. Project cost will be determined during the estimating phase and cost sharing discussions will follow.
Can we apply for state or federal funding to help with the cost?Yes, there are grants and loans available for irrigation efficiency projects, including from agencies like the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). Although they are extremely competitive, we will research these opportunities to potentially help offset costs.
Will additional water rights be required, and how will the project affect existing rights?The project will not require new water rights since we are not changing the water source or volume. However, any modifications to how the water is used or transferred might require permits from the DNRC. As for existing water rights, the project will not impact them as long as the water continues to be used for its current purposes (e.g., irrigation, domestic use). Ensuring that all members receive their entitled share of water is a primary reason for undertaking this endeavor.
How will water pressure and distribution to members be handled?One of the benefits of burying a pipeline is improved water pressure and consistent delivery to all members. The pipeline will be engineered to have adequate capacity to meet peak irrigation demands and ensure uniform distribution.
Who is responsible for ongoing maintenance after it’s installed?Maintenance responsibility falls to the lateral group or association managing the irrigation system. We will craft a clear agreement among members regarding maintenance duties, costs, and schedules.
Will this project change the way water is allocated to members?The pipeline itself won't change the water allocation as the same system of rights will be respected. Careful planning and communication will be followed to ensure that all members receive their entitled amount of water.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Upcoming
• Fall 2025 Break GroundIn Progress - July / August 2025
• Writing and Sending Final Notices
• Finalizing Pipeline Design
• Developing Hydraulic Analysis
• Developing Water User Agreement
• Working closely with Daly Ditch on Project TimelineMay 2025
• Reaching out to surrounding neighbors of pipeline source point
• Designing informational postcards
• Acquiring estimates for installation
• Investigating potential grants for applicationMar 2025
• Discovered location of old take off
• Published map of proposed pipeline to the Pipeline Route page.Sep 2024
• Website launched
• Several meetings with Daly Ditch covering the technical, legal, and administrative aspects of managing the irrigation system, setting the groundwork for automating water rights management and infrastructure improvements.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or technical advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Property owners are encouraged to consult with legal or water rights professionals for specific guidance related to their individual circumstances. We assume no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.© 2026 gcrpipeline.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from the owner is strictly prohibited. For permissions and inquiries, please contact [email protected].