The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe has filed a new lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, alleging that the Dakota Access Pipeline is operating illegally and poses environmental and cultural threats.
Mary Steurer reports for North Dakota Monitor.
In short:
- The tribe claims the Army Corps allowed the pipeline to operate without proper environmental review or emergency spill plans.
- The lawsuit cites a 2024 engineering report that raises concerns about unaccounted drilling fluids near the pipeline’s water crossing.
- The tribe also questions Energy Transfer's qualifications, citing past environmental violations in other states.
Key quote:
“We are fighting for our rights and the water that is life for Oceti Sakowin tribes.”
— Janet Alkire, chairwoman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
Why this matters:
The Dakota Access Pipeline runs near Standing Rock’s water supply, and spills could severely impact tribal lands. The tribe argues that proper safety measures are lacking, threatening their water and sacred sites.
