State of Montana Newsroom
MSP gets go-ahead to resume normal water use in all areas
On Sunday, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) gave Montana State Prison (MSP) the go-ahead to resume normal water use in all areas of the facility.
DEQ rescinded the boil water advisory in F Unit last week after testing conducted on Oct. 27 and 28 returned acceptable results. Samples taken on Nov. 1 in the Food Factory and the high-security and low-security dining rooms also demonstrated the water is safe for consumption.
“This outcome is the result of a tremendous group effort, and we are thankful to everyone who played a role in helping us continue operations throughout this challenging situation,” Montana Department of Corrections (DOC) Director Brian Gootkin said. “We have water service in all areas which means we can focus our attention on getting as far along the path of replacing the existing water system as possible over the coming months.”
On Oct. 10, MSP lost water in the secure facility compound affecting showers, toilets and sinks. In response, DOC and other agencies immediately mobilized to deliver water bottles, portable toilets, portable showers, dry shower kits, and hand washing stations.
After multiple leaks in the system were found, the DOC began developing a plan to install new, modern, and permanent water infrastructure to serve MSP. The 2025 Montana Legislature provided $21 million in House Bill 5 to pay for the infrastructure replacement which will serve new units under construction at the prison as well as existing structures.
DOC staff have been meeting with Sletten Construction, DLR Group, and the Montana Department of Administration’s Architecture and Engineering team to flesh out a construction plan.
Crews will begin installing additional incoming and outgoing flow meters and replacing new supply line to the water tanks. Contractors are also mapping plans for water system replacement. DEQ will review engineering designs for the new system to ensure standards for water treatment and design are met.
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About DOC:
At the Montana Department of Corrections, our mission is to create a safer Montana through accountability, rehabilitation, and empowerment. Please visit cor.mt.gov for more information.
About DEQ:
At the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, our mission is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana. DEQ is charged with maintaining and improving Montana’s air, land and water. Please visit deq.mt.gov for more information about DEQ programs.