Construction has begun on Enbridge Line 3, a replacement pipeline that will transfer tar sands oil (915,000 barrels per day) from Alberta, Canada across Minnesota to Superior, Wisconsin. First proposed a decade ago, it has been challenged every step of the way by several tribes along with a number of environmentally related organizations. History shows us that pipelines leak; this one will be no exception. At issue is the threat to people, land, and water from a pipeline that, from many credible accounts, will serve no useful purpose. We simply do not need additional oil, especially tar sands oil, a particularly poor and environmentally damaging grade of oil.
Enbridge has obtained all necessary permits to begin construction though there are ongoing court challenges including one filed by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Assembled at the construction site are Water Keepers and their supporters doing whatever they can to delay or stop work on the pipeline. They need support from the rest of us. Members of the Green Sanctuary Team are asking us to individually and collectively lend support in whatever way we can to those on the front lines fighting this injustice. Letter writing and calls, especially to the Governor’s office, delivery of supplies, or perhaps a second collection are examples of ways for us to get involved. Contact Bob Finley at finbob@charter.net for questions or discussion.
A detailed account of issues involved with the pipeline can be found at: