Wisconsin environmental regulators extended the deadline for comments regarding Enbridge Energy’s proposal to relocate an oil pipeline through northern Wisconsin.
Wednesday’s announcement by the Department of Natural Resources indicated that it is currently reviewing more than 10,000 comments on its draft environmental statement regarding plans to bypass Bad River Reservation using a new pipeline.
Nearly 300 people attended the nearly 10-hour-long online hearing last month, where most spoke against it.
The December review was released. It has been criticized by environmental groups, tribal governments, and thousands of others who claim it is incomplete and full of errors.
DNR believes that the extension of the comment period is reasonable considering the complexity of the project and the amount information. They hope that the extended comment period will allow the public ample time to comment on more than 700 pages.
Written comments can be submitted to the environmental review through April 15.
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Canadianpipeline wants to take down a 12-mile section of its Line 5 pipeline, bypass the reservation and install 41 miles of new pipe through Ashland Bayfield, Iron and Bayfield counties.
According to the draft environmental reviewThe $450 million project would temporarily disturb 135 acres of wetlands and cross 185 waterways.
According to the company, the line transports an average 540,000 barrels per day between Superior, Ontario and southwestern Ontario. It is a key piece in energy infrastructure that delivers crude oil and natural gas liquids directly to terminals in Michigan.
Opponents argue that the project could endanger waters, including Lake Superior. This is contrary to warnings by international scientists to stop new investments into fossil fuel infrastructure in order avoid the worst impacts from climate change.
Supporters include Republican lawmakers, trade unions, the state chamber of commerce and Republican lawmakers. They tout the economic impact of the reroute and the 700 construction jobs it will create.
Last year, the Madison City Council passed resolutions against the Line 5 reroute. Also, the Dane County Board recently approved an expansion of Enbridges Line 3 to Minnesota. This connects to a pipeline which cuts through Dane County.
Last month, the Wisconsin Legislature approved a non-binding resolution stating that Wisconsin’s economy will continue to depend on petroleum products for many years. It also asked lawmakers to support continued development and delivery oil derived from North American oil resources to American refineries.
The proposed Koshkonong Solar Farm, which covers 2,400 acres, highlights tensions as Wisconsin utilities try to replace coal-fired electricity with clean energy.
One of my favorite perks is the opportunity to learn from and interact with interesting people. These UW-Platteville geoographers are a good example.
This is my attempt to explain a complex problem in the face rampant misinformation following winter storm Uri.
My father-in law was the one to thank for this incredible snow castle!
These clever critters can be found in every neighborhood, even Downtown Madison.
