Prior Lake, MN – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community today released two reports on the status and condition of the Community’s water supply. As a sovereign nation, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is the government entity responsible for providing quality drinking water to its members and guests. The SMSC operates their own wells, water treatment, and water bottling facility. In addition, the SMSC operates their own sewer systems, wastewater treatment, Public Works Department, fire and ambulance services, and more.

“We are pleased to report that the Community’s water completed and passed all tests required by the United States Environmental Protection Agency,” said SMSC Public Works Manager Jeremy Gosewisch. “Water is tested daily for chlorine and fluoride. It is also tested regularly for bacteria, pesticides, and other contaminants.”

SMSC Tribal Administrator Bill Rudnicki spoke about the water reports. “It is important to the Community that the water we drink and serve to our Community members and our enterprise guests is of the highest possible quality. We have devoted many resources to providing the best possible drinking water, and the 2011 Water Reports describe the processes and systems we have developed and implemented.”

The two reports, one for each Tribal water system, detail where the water comes from and the drinking water safety standards it meets. A Water Quality Data Table is contained in each report with precise findings. All governments which have their own water systems are required by federal law to publish this information. The reports highlight measures the SMSC takes to protect its water supply including its Wellhead Protection activities. The 2011 reports cover water that was available for drinking in 2011.

Both reports are available at www.shakopeedakota.org/enviro/resource.html or by calling 952-496-6176.

As a steward of the land, the SMSC engages in a number of activities to preserve and protect the land for future generations. For more information, visit www.shakopeedakota.org.