Michigan environmental group responds to appeal for Line 5 pipeline fence

A Michigan environmental group is appealing the state’s decision to approve enclosing the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline.

Built in 1953, this pipeline transports up to 540,000 barrels of oil through the Great Lakes every day.

Enbridge plans to build a protective tunnel around a six-kilometer section of the Straits of Mackinac, which connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

Environmental groups and tribal leaders want the state to revoke Enbridge’s permit, fearing a potentially catastrophic oil spill.

The non-profit organization “Oil & Water Don’t Mix” is committed to preventing oil pollution and promoting clean energy – and supports the call.

David Holtz, the group’s international coordinator, discussed the next steps.

“The next big hurdle for the tunnel will be the federal permitting process,” said Holtz. “That’s what we’ll be focusing on in the next few days.”

Enbridge spokesman Ryan Duffy said in an email statement that Line 5 safety is regulated solely by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Enbridge claims it also conducts internal inspections using an MRI-like tool called a “pig” that travels down the line, recording data on the pipe’s thickness and looking for cracks, dents or signs of corrosion.

Holtz said his organization will continue its efforts to inform the public and the federal government about what needs to be done regarding Line 5.

“The Biden administration,” said Holtz, “must send a signal about its own climate policy by rejecting the tunnel.”

Holtz added that the permitting process, known as an environmental impact study, is open for public comment and is scheduled for early next year.