(1) The department may apply for reservations and shall, as rapidly as possible, assist other appropriate state agencies and political subdivisions in applying for reservations within the basin. The United States or any agency of the United States may apply for reservation of water in the basin under 85-2-316 for beneficial use of that water in the state of Montana. Particular emphasis must be given to applications to reserve water for agricultural, municipal, and minimum flow purposes for the protection of existing rights and aquatic life.
(2) Notwithstanding other provisions of this title, the department shall extend the duration of the 14 conservation district reservations and 8 municipal reservations approved by administrative order dated December 15, 1978, in the basin until those reservations are perfected, or until those reservations are revoked pursuant to 85-2-316.