Bad River State of Emergency Update
ODANAH, WI – The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa remains in a State of Emergency after thunderstorms caused severe flooding on Monday, July 11, 2016 through Thursday, July 14, 2016. Though the Band is still assessing the extent of the damage to property, roads, bridges, community facilities, and other areas, accessibility to the area has been largely restored after having been cutoff for several days.
US Hwy 2 is open for cars and light vehicles. Heavy trucks, semis, buses, and bus-like RVs are still prohibited from using Hwy 2. Recreational vehicles and hauling trailers are highly discouraged from using this route. On the reservation, Kakagon Road, Government Road, and Boat Landing Road remain closed. Please watch our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/badriverflood for the latest information regarding road closures and conditions.
We have compiled a list of resources for local residents affected by the flood in Bad River.
- Displaced residents or affected residents with other needs should make an appointment to attend the Multi-Agency Resource Center at the Bad River Community Center on Tuesday, July 19 – Wednesday, July 20 by calling (715) 682-7127.
- Meals will be provided for flood victims and community members daily from July 17-22, 2016, at 5:00 p.m. at the Bad River Community Center.
- A boil notice is still in effect for tribal residents with private wells that were affected by flooding within the reservation boundaries. Any affected tribal member with a well that has not been inspected and approved for use should call Eugene Bigboy, Jr., POWTS Inspector, at (715) 682-7123 ex. 1663.
- Swim and Standing Water Advisories are also still in effect. There should be no swimming in local water bodies or standing water due to potential contamination.
In the wake of the disaster, Bad River Tribal Chairman Robert Blanchard has said that the Bad River community has received overwhelming support.
“On behalf of the Bad River Band, we’d like to extend our sincere gratitude and a chi-miigwech (big thank you) for all the help and assistance we have been receiving. Amid the disaster and destruction, we are fortunate to have seen many families, organizations, communities, and tribes come together to help our people and work together toward safety and recovery.”
Donations for the Bad River community are still being accepted. To donate food or goods, please contact Esie Leoso-Corbine, Bad River Social Services Director, at (715) 292-0067. Two permanent donation sites are also available in Ashland at Midland on Sanborn Ave. and Super One on Ellis Ave. Monetary donations can be sent to the Tribe’s Flood Relief Fund at Associated Bank. Send cash or check to:
Associated Bank
Bad River Tribal Relief Fund
Account # 2236069189
221 4th Street
Ashland, WI 54806
You can also visit www.badriver-nsn.gov and click ‘Donate’ to give via Paypal or credit card.
Anyone that is interested in volunteering with relief efforts or has any questions can call the Command Center at (715) 685-7859
