(1) The department of natural resources and conservation, in cooperation with the Montana supreme court, the Montana water courts, the district courts of Montana, the Montana university system, and other appropriate state and federal agencies, shall develop an educational program for water commissioners and mediators that includes:
(a) an annual seminar on commissioner and mediator duties, mediation techniques, and water measuring techniques;
(b) preparation and, as necessary, revision of a water commissioner and mediator manual; and
(c) an outreach program that identifies persons who might serve as water commissioners or mediators.
(2) Unless a district court judge having jurisdiction determines otherwise, a water commissioner appointed pursuant to 85-5-101 shall complete at least one educational program as provided in subsection (1) prior to administering water.