Water restrictions, burn ban at Rocky Boy

Dry weather and reductions in the water supply on Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation have led to restrictions on water usage and a ban on outdoor fires.

“Most of our tanks are averaging right now about four or five feet of water in them,” said Dustin White, director of Chippewa Cree Tribal Water Resources. “With the extreme heat, people are using a lot of water, and our source water just can’t keep up with the demand right now.”

He said the water restrictions include bans on watering lawns or gardens, washing vehicles and filling up pools or water toys.

First-time offenders will receive a warning. A subsequent violation will lead to individual offender’s having the water to their homes shut off until the restrictions are lifted.

He said the department had been encouraging people to conserve water and announced the restrictions last week. The department will now begin enforcing them.

About a dozen warnings have been issued, but, as of Monday, no water had yet been shut off to any homes, White said.  

If conservation measures are not taken, at current levels, the reservation would have about six days left of water, he said.  

The restrictions apply to the whole reservation, but the Newtown Water system, the primary water system on the reservation is of particular concern. White said four tanks feed the systems and all are operating at about 25 percent capacity.

White said restrictions will remain in place until conditions cool down. He said given that the 14-day forecast shows an average of 97 degrees, he thinks restrictions will remain in place throughout the summer and possibly into the fall.

Though people initially expressed anger about the restrictions through comments made on Facebook, he said most people understand the decision.

White said people should also check for leaky faucets and toilets, adding that a toilet can use between 500 to 1,000 gallons of water a day if it is leaking.

He said an easy way for people to find out if their toilet is leaking is to put water coloring or dye in the toilet bowl and if it disappears in a minute that means there is a leak.

If any leaks are spotted they should contact the Chippewa Cree Housing Authority or a plumber to get the leaks fixed, he said.

A total burn ban is also in effect for the reservation as of last night, White said.

Though campfires were previously allowed, all outdoor fires and fireworks are now prohibited.

He said the ban will be enforced by Chippewa Cree Natural Resources, Rocky Boy Police and Fish and Game.

People who violate the ban will face fines.

For more questions people can contact Water Resources at 395-4225 and Natural Resources at 395-4308.