BUTTE, Montana 8-14-2025 – A “do not drink” order remains in effect for Butte residents living south of Front Street, as officials work to resolve a water contamination concern.
The advisory was issued Wednesday afternoon after Montana Resources reported a hydrant pressurization issue that may have allowed contaminants to enter the city’s potable water system. The affected water, containing calcium and sulfate, was detected on Montana Resources property. Officials could not confirm whether it reached the public water supply, prompting the precautionary order.
Because local testing capacity is limited, samples have been sent to the state laboratory in Helena. Crews continue flushing the city waterlines while awaiting results.
Mark Thompson, vice president of environmental affairs for Montana Resources, said preventative measures are already underway.
“We have ordered backflow prevention equipment so this could never happen again,” Thompson explained. “It will be a physical barrier to ensure water from the city main cannot flow back into our system. In 40 years of operation, this is the first time I’m aware of such an incident.”
To support residents, more than 20,000 bottles of drinking water have been distributed for free at the Butte Civic Center and Montana Resources’ Shields Avenue office. As of 5 p.m. Thursday, the Civic Center had run out, but supplies remained available at Montana Resources until 7 p.m. Additional shipments are expected Friday morning.
Emergency management officials emphasize that residents south of Front Street may still bathe and shower with tap water—just avoid ingesting it, and take extra care when bathing young children.
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For Reference:
NBC Montana, Montana Resources takes responsibility for potential contamination of Butte water (Thu, August 14th 2025)
NonStop Local, Butte water distribution halts; Here’s where to get water until Friday (Thu, August 14th 2025)
