Many reasons to oppose pipeline

To the editor:

As one who spoke against the Bakken pipeline, I would like to add details that have been left out in news reports designed to balance the pro vs. con arguments. There were more varied reasons to oppose than to favor the pipeline, so the 'balance” that has been presented somewhat misrepresents the whole issue. The climate crisis affects laborers as well as environmentalists. Human contributions to that crisis will only be exacerbated by expanding fossil fuel extraction and usage.

The jobs in question can be recruited into the renewable and sustainable energy industry along with the boost to the economy. Those problems can be mitigated in Iowa's gradual transition to renewable energy. Climate and environmental changes from fossil fuel extraction cannot be mitigated nearly as readily, if at all.

There is little accountability required of Dakota Access, LLC. There is no environmental impact study required in order to get their permit. Also, according to Iowa law, Dakota Access will be held to a maximum of $250,000 damages. Previous spills have cost billions to clean up. Guess who picks up the tab after Dakota Access pays their limited (LLC) amount?

Susan West

Fairbank