Butte’s Water Crisis – Here’s What We Know So Far

Late Wednesday afternoon, Butte-Silver Bow County officials were alerted to a potential contamination of our municipal water supply that has led to a Do Not Consume order for residents and businesses south of Front Street here in the Mining City.

We reached out to Butte-Silver Bow Public Works Director Mark Neary about the nature of the contamination and what steps residents need to take.  Neary told us that the contamination was the result of a hydrant being back-pressured at Montana Resources, Inc, cross-contaminating the municipal supply.  "As soon as I found out we started flushing and taking samples near the mine and working our way away from the area. We did find some turbidity in the lines close to the mine. As we got further out it was clean," Neary told us, adding "DEQ recommended a no consumption order until we are sure and samples prove it is safe to consume. We have flushed until clear and chlorine was detected in all these areas." 

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Do not consume water from the municipal supply system until testing proves it is safe.
• Do not bathe, cook, or brush your teeth with water from the municipal system.
• Do not let your pets drink water from the municipal system.
• Do not call 911 or the Butte Police about the water issue.  For information on the water situation, call (406) 497-6440.
• Boil your water in hopes of contaminant removal.  It won't work.

THINGS YOU CAN DO

• Sign up for emergency alerts from Butte-Silver Bow
• Pick up free bottled water tomorrow at Montana Resources Administrative Offices at 600 Shields Avenue (across from McGruff Park).  Water is expected to be available around mid-morning.