WATERTOWN, S.D. – About 15 members of the South Dakota Army National Guard were activated by Gov. Kristi Noem to help distribute water to communities on the Pine Ridge Reservation after recent floodwaters have washed out a county rural water line.
The Soldiers, from Watertown-based Company A, 139th Brigade Support Battalion, are providing provide drinkable water to those in need in the communities of Red Shirt, Pine Ridge, Porcupine, Evergreen and Wounded Knee.
The Soldiers will deploy with five Load Handling System vehicles equipped with five Compatible Water Tank Racks, or “Hippos.” The Hippo has the capability to receive, store and distribute up to 2,000 gallons of potable water per system.
The National Guard members will be providing water to the public from a central location in each community until the waterline is restored. Residents should bring plastic bottles, containers or receptacles to receive the water.