"For many of us, it's hard to imagine life without the Internet or cell phones.

Until recently, those key resources weren't available to residents of the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, which straddles the North Dakota-South Dakota border.

Now, Standing Rock Telecommunications is offering access to both services - a move that will benefit the 8,500 people who live on the reservation and serve as a model for tribally owned telecom companies across the country.

The effort hasn't been without challenges. It took several years and an $11 million initial investment to get 18 towers to cover the 3,572-square-mile reservation.

And it's not a rich area; the average annual income is $10,000. SRT has about only 270 customers and is aiming for 1,000 by the end of the year.

But the potential benefits are immense, starting with educational options for children. Access to the Internet equals a window to the world. Also, because the SRT is tribally owned, it will be able to offer discounted rates for needy families."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Wireless company boosts potential on reservation (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 8/4)

Related Stories:
Standing Rock Sioux Tribe starts up telecommunications company (8/2)