BISMARCK (KFGO) - Gov. Jack Dalrymple has ordered a mandatory evacuation of all areas under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Morton County.
The governor's order says it is effective immediately and will be in effect until further notice.
The evacuation order says many structures used by Dakota Access Pipeline protesters are unsuitable for winter weather. Dalrymple spokesman Jeff Zent says the order was issued out of safety concerns for the protesters.
The proclamation orders protesters to evacuate the area and take all their personal possessions. The governor says the availability of emergency services cannot be guaranteed in the affected area.
The evacuation area will remain in effect even if the Corps of Engineers redefines or removes prohibited areas.