August 13, 2026
The Mni Wiconi pipeline repair work is complete, and the WR/LJ water system has returned to normal operation.
WR/LJ members may now return to the every-other-day watering schedule.
We sincerely thank everyone for doing their part to conserve water over the past couple of days. Your conservation efforts made a difference and helped us maintain service while the pipeline repairs were underway.
MELLETTE COUNTY MEMBERS
As many of you know, Mellette County was hit by a severe storm last night that brought down numerous electrical poles. Due to resulting power outages, portions of the water system have been unable to pump water normally.
Generators are currently powering pump stations while the electric cooperatives continue working to replace damaged poles and restore power.
If you are located in Mellette County, please continue to conserve water and avoid non-essential water use until further notice.
Once again, thank you to all of our members for your patience, cooperation, and understanding!
July 21, 2026
Due to ongoing severe drought conditions, the West River/Lyman-Jones Rural Water System (WR/LJ) is operating at maximum capacity. To ensure an adequate water supply for essential domestic and livestock use, WR/LJ is implementing mandatory outdoor watering restrictions.
These restrictions are effective immediately and will remain in effect through September 30, 2026.
Outdoor Watering Restrictions: Outdoor watering of lawns, trees, gardens, and landscaped areas is prohibited between 8:00 a.m. and 8 p.m.
- Even-numbered physical addresses: Water only on even-numbered days of the month.
- Odd-numbered physical addresses: Water only on odd-numbered days of the month.
- No outdoor watering is permitted on the 31st day of any month.
Exceptions: These restrictions do not apply to manual watering using a handheld hose, bucket, watering can, or similar container.
Domestic and Livestock Use: These conservation measures do not restrict water use for domestic household needs or livestock.
WR/LJ appreciates your cooperation in conserving water and using the available supply as efficiently as possible during this period of drought. We will continue to monitor weather conditions and system demands. If drought conditions persist or worsen, additional water conservation measures, including stricter outdoor water restrictions, may be implemented if necessary.
If you have any questions, please contact the WR/LJ Murdo Office at 605-669-2931.
*SPECIAL ATTENTION*
Customers in the Grindstone Area and Kadoka Rural Area will remain under Critical-Level Water Restrictions. Please click on the red underlined areas for details on the affected areas and the applicable restrictions.
July 17, 2026
Due to the ongoing severe temperature, WR/LJ wells and the Mni Wiconi Water Treatment Plant are pumping at maximum capacity. It has become necessary to implement mandatory outside watering restrictions to ensure adequate water supplies for domestic and livestock use. The water restrictions will be in effect until further notice.
WATER RESTRICTION POLICY: No outside lawn and tree watering or filling pools until further notice.
Nothing shall prohibit manual watering with a handheld hose or with a bucket, sprinkling can or other similar container.
This action does NOT restrict domestic and livestock water usage. WR/LJ requests your cooperation in using the water supply as efficiently and conservatively as possible. Check facebook or our website for updates.
If you have any questions, please call the WR/LJ Murdo Office at 605-669-2931.
