N.D. Cent. Code § 61-02-23.1: Condemnation by the water commission

Whenever a right of way is to be taken by condemnation proceedings for any purpose authorized by chapters 61-24.3 or 61-24.6, the commission may take possession of the right of way after making a written offer to purchase and depositing the amount of the offer with the clerk of the district court of the county wherein the right of way is located. The clerk shall immediately notify the property owner in writing of the deposit. Within thirty days after receiving notice, the property owner may appeal to the district court by serving notice of appeal upon the water commission and the matter must be tried at the next term of court with a jury, unless a jury is waived, in the manner prescribed for trials under chapter 32-15.