Whenever water is available and it is impracticable to apportion operation and maintenance charges as provided in section 492 of this title, the Secretary of the Interior may, prior to giving public notice of the construction charge per acre upon land under any project, furnish water to any entryman or private landowner thereunder until such notice is given, making a reasonable charge therefor, and such charges shall be subject to the same penalties and to the provisions for cancellation and collection as herein provided for other operation and maintenance charges.
(Aug. 13, 1914, ch. 247, § 11, 38 Stat. 689.)