FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, May 4, 2026
Rapid City, SD – Today’s federal court hearing resulted in a temporary restraining order being granted to plaintiffs in the ongoing lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service, a move that bans drilling at sacred site Pe’ Sla for 14 days. Additionally, the injunction hearing is tentatively scheduled for May 20-21, 2026.
“This is a huge win for the people, for tribal nations and for all those who believe in clean water and protecting Mother Earth,” said Wizipan Garriott, president of NDN Collective. “We’ve successfully stopped drilling and ongoing harm for at least the next two weeks. This restraining order gives us an opportunity to prepare for the preliminary injunction hearing where the merits of the full case will be argued later this month. This is the first big step in this fight to protect Pe’ Sla and clean drinking water for all.”“As a mother and an auntie, this is a big win for future generations, the land, and the water,” said Valeriah Big Eagle, Director of He Sapa Initiatives at NDN Collective. “This victory would not be possible without all the support from the people including our elders and spiritual leaders. This was a true community effort. To all those who supported the Pe’ Sla Protector Camp, if online or in person, we are so grateful for your support. This win would not have been possible without you, Wóphila tȟáŋka ečhíčiyapi ye.”
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NDN Collective is an Indigenous-led organization dedicated to building Indigenous power. Through organizing, activism, philanthropy, grantmaking, capacity-building, and narrative change, we are creating sustainable solutions on Indigenous terms.
