Dakota Access Pipeline Protesters Announce Major Victory at Standing Rock

The Standing Rock Sioux tribe announced Sunday that the Army will halt construction on the Dakota Access pipeline previously slated to cross under North Dakota's Lake Oahe. The tribe, along with protesters ranging from celebrities to military veterans, have opposed the pipeline easement since its announcement in July.

In the Army's official announcement, assistant secretary for civil works Jo-Ellen Darcy stated: "Although we have had continuing discussion and exchanges of new information with the Standing Rock Sioux and Dakota Access, it's clear that there's more work to do. The best way to complete that work responsibly and expeditiously is to explore alternate routes for the pipeline crossing."

The news was met with celebration from protesters and supporters alike, particularly those who have been camping near the construction site at Lake Oahe for weeks.

However, the Army's decision to deny the easement has not been without controversy. DAPL supporters, including North Dakota House Republican Kevin Cramer, have criticized the decision to halt construction.