The U.S. government has put a stop on a debate over an oil pipeline in North Dakota --blocking construction on federal tribal lands.

It happened shortly after a judge ruled yesterday that work on the Dakota access pipeline would continue.

This denied a Native American tribe's motion to stop the construction.

But President Obama appealed that decision and requested the billion dollar oil project come to a halt.

Over the past few weeks, thousands protested in support of  North Dakota and efforts to protect their sacred lands.

Back at home the Chumash Indian Council Of Bakersfield has joined more than 200 Native Americans tribes that have supported North Dakota's fight.

The council says they're standing in solidarity with it's fellow Native Americans in an effort to protect the land which once belonged to their ancestors.

The Chumash Indian Council says the construction could contaminate their water supply and until a decision has been reached they'll continue to pray for the tribes in North Dakota.