The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed that the Santee Sioux Nation in Nebraska remains under a drinking water advisory due to elevated levels of manganese. The clarification came after the agency received questions from residents about the status of the advisory, originally issued earlier this year.

In a statement from EPA Region 7, officials emphasized that the October press release “does not change the status of the previously issued drinking water advisory.” Water from the community’s public system continues to exceed EPA Health Advisory levels for manganese, a naturally occurring element that can cause health concerns when consumed at high concentrations, particularly for infants and young children.

The Santee Sioux Nation has advised residents not to drink water from the public system and continues to distribute bottled water as an alternative supply. However, the water remains safe for non-consumptive uses such as bathing, dishwashing, and laundry.

EPA spokesperson Shannan Beisser said the agency is working closely with the Tribe to monitor water quality and identify long-term solutions. “Our goal is to support the Santee Sioux Nation in ensuring safe and reliable drinking water for all residents,” Beisser said.

The advisory will remain in effect until follow-up testing confirms manganese levels have fallen within EPA’s recommended health guidelines.