Opponents call on Branstad to reject pipeline in Iowa

DES MOINES - A coalition of environmental groups submitted 2,300 petitions to Gov. Terry Branstad on Tuesday asking him to oppose a crude oil pipeline proposed to cut diagonally across Iowa and affect properties in 17 to 19 counties.

Groups opposing the Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners L.P. proposed 1,100-mile Bakken oil pipeline through four states from North Dakota to Patoka, Ill., include Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, Sierra Club Iowa Chapter, the Women, Food and Agriculture Network, and the Food & Water Watch.

'The proposed Iowa Bakken Oil Pipeline would be a disaster for the people and the state of Iowa,” said Matt Ohloff, Iowa Organizer for Food & Water Watch. 'Gov. Branstad must represent what is in the best interest of the state and oppose this pipeline.”

The 30-inch diameter pipeline initially would provide 320,000 barrels per day of capacity based on customer demand. Information provided by company representatives who met with Iowa governmental regulators indicated the pipeline would be buried so the top of the pipe is at least 48 inches deep or so the top of the pipe is two feet below any drain tiles, whichever is lower. The permanent easement will be 50 feet wide, but the temporary construction corridor will be 100 to 150 feet wide.

'Gov. Branstad believes Iowans deserve to have their voices heard on the proposed pipeline,” said Branstad spokesman Jimmy Centers.

'Beginning later this year, Iowans will have the chance to share their thoughts at town meetings held in every county which the pipeline would run through,” he added. 'Ultimately, the Iowa Utilities Board, not the governor, will rule on the proposal, but only after Iowans have had the opportunity to share their opinions.”

CCI member Ross Grooters called on Branstad, state legislators and local officials to listen to Iowa stakeholders in rejecting the proposed pipeline project.

'This shortsighted project comes with great ecological and social costs,” said Angie Carter of the Women, Food and Agriculture Network. 'We are concerned about the escalated violence, particularly the trafficking and disappearance of women, within the Bakken oil field boomtowns.”

ETP officials, who plan to hold public hearings later this year, have told state agencies the company intends to give notice to all landowners in a corridor one-half mile wide, but that will be increased to one mile in areas involving sensitive crossings such as rivers and major wetlands.