A no-water day at Northern Cheyenne

Water line break at Northern Cheyenne. (Photo by Clara Caufield)

LAME DEER, Mont. – On a chilly Tuesday morning, residents of Lame Deer, a close-knit community of approximately 2,500 souls, woke up to an unexpected challenge — no running water. The quiet hum of daily life was interrupted by the rush of water bursting from the construction site adjacent to the Northern Cheyenne Capital, where crews had recently begun work on a new broadband facility. As the heavy machinery dug into the earth, tragedy struck: a major water line was accidentally punctured, unleashing a powerful surge that spilled onto the roadway, creating a temporary flood amid the streets.

With the water main swiftly shut off to stem the flow, the entire community felt the impact. The Tribal office and all associated programs faced immediate closure, their doors locked under Administrative Leave for health and safety reasons. The Indian Health Service responded swiftly, setting up portable porta-potties at the clinic to provide some relief, even as the clinic itself remained open for essential services.

Residents scrambled to secure bottled water, rushing to the Big Store and Cheyenne Depot, where thirsty customers emptied shelves at an alarming rate. Many learned an important lesson that day — keeping a household supply of water on hand is a simple yet vital precaution, especially given the recurring disruptions caused by aging infrastructure. For too long, the community has faced the harsh reality of outdated pipes and the ongoing challenge of updating the reservation’s water system, a concern that weighs heavily on tribe leaders and residents alike.

Meanwhile, the contractor worked tirelessly, bringing in additional equipment and manpower, their determined efforts culminating in a swift repair by evening. The water line was fixed, the pressure restored, and the flow resumed, yet the community’s concerns didn’t end there. For the next several days, residents will need to boil their water, whether for drinking, cooking, or washing, until the Tribal Utilities program verifies that the water is free from contamination.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for infrastructure improvements — a matter of health, safety, and community resilience. As the tribe continues to advocate for better resources, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for future water disruptions.

For updates or to share your experiences,

(Contact Clara Caufield at acheyennereview@gmail.com.)

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