Adams, ND Faces Water Crisis: Residents Adapt Without Tap Water

UPDATE: Adams, North Dakota, is grappling with a severe water crisis as the town has been without running water since October 15, 1991. Residents are adapting to life without tap water, melting snow and hauling in supplies as officials scramble to find a new source.

The situation became critical when the town’s water tower ran dry on October 20, leaving residents to confront daily life without this essential resource. Local businesses are still operating, but the absence of running water has forced the community to revert to old habits.

Lillian Bakke, a longtime resident, exemplifies the town’s resilience. Despite the water shortage, she kept her hair appointment at Nygard’s Beauty Shop, having washed her hair at home. “I’ve been coming here since 1936,” she stated. This determination reflects the spirit of Adams, where daily routines continue, albeit with significant adjustments.

Local beautician Kathy Drevecky has been accommodating clients by adapting services. Bakke shared, “Instead of canceling, I just went with wet hair.” Such resourcefulness is commonplace as residents find ways to cope.

Children in Adams have learned to recycle water creatively, while adults are hauling in supplies from neighboring areas. Many families are melting snow for drinking and cooking water, with resident Vince Kjelaas noting, “The snow on Sunday really helped.” He has gathered about 160 gallons of water by shoveling snow and warming it.

Local eateries like the Prairie Lanes Cafe remain bustling, though patrons are mindful of their water use. Aneta Vejtasa, a staff member, remarked, “You learn to scrimp a little bit. You’re not as casual at running it down the drain as you used to be.” This newfound appreciation for water underscores the challenges community members face.

Students at Adams Public School have also felt the impact. Many have been bringing lunches from home, and sixth-grader Joe Karas expressed his frustration, stating, “A person can only eat so much cold pizza.” The novelty of packing lunch has worn off, highlighting the broader effects of the water crisis on daily life.

As of now, the town has hired a Fargo company to locate a new water source, but efforts have yet to yield results. Four test wells have been drilled, and residents experienced a temporary trickle of water during one drill, prompting hope among community members. “We thought we were in heaven yesterday when we had water running through the taps,” said Vejtasa.

The situation in Adams serves as a stark reminder of the importance of water in daily life. Residents are coming together, displaying remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

NEXT STEPS: Town officials are expected to continue working with the Fargo company to identify a sustainable water source. As the situation develops, community members remain hopeful for a swift resolution to the ongoing crisis.