The Army Corps of Engineers has announced that federal officials will deny final permits for the Dakota Access Pipeline to pass through the Standing Rock reservation. The decision, which is being celebrated as a huge win for protesters, coincides with the announcement that the Corps will conduct an environmental impact review of the pipeline to determine whether there are other places to route it.

Interior Secretary Sally Jewell released a statement addressing the decision:

"The thoughtful approach established by the Army today ensures that there will be an in-depth evaluation of alternative routes for the pipeline and a closer look at potential impacts, as envisioned by NEPA," Jewell said in the statement. "The Army's announcement underscores that tribal rights reserved in treaties and federal law, as well as Nation-to-Nation consultation with tribal leaders, are essential components of the analysis to be undertaken in the environmental impact statement going forward."

Local citizens and activists who have descended upon North Dakota in support of the Standing Rock Sioux have shown no signs of backing down over the past few weeks, despite some police violence. At least 2,000 veterans just arrived at the reservation to assist protesters.