N.D. Cent. Code § 61-02-22
The commission has full power and authority to acquire by purchase or exchange, upon such terms and conditions as the commission determines necessary and proper, and by condemnation in accordance with and subject to chapter 32-15 and the provisions of all laws applicable to the condemnation of property for public use, any lands, rights, water rights of whatever character, easements, franchises, and other property determined necessary or proper for the construction, operation, and maintenance of works. This chapter does not require the commission, in condemning any riparian water right, to condemn also the riparian land to which such right may be incident. The title to all property purchased, acquired, or condemned must be taken in the name of the commission and held in trust for, and for the use and benefit of, the people of this state.
N.D.C.C. § 61-02-22