Environmentalists Demand Action on Pipeline Risks at Kalamazoo Event

On a reflective occasion at Historic Bridge Park near Battle Creek, Michigan, environmental advocates gathered to mark the 15th anniversary of the significant oil spill into the Kalamazoo River. This event brought to light lingering concerns regarding the safety and environmental impact of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline, prompting calls for its decommissioning.

The 2010 incident involving Enbridge's Line 6b led to the release of 1.2 million gallons of oil, creating one of the largest inland oil spills in U.S. history. The repercussions of this environmental disaster are still felt today, as various organizations highlighted the urgent need for preventive measures against future spills.

Dr. Denise Keele, the Executive Director of the Michigan Climate Action Network, stressed the importance of learning from past events. She stated, “The message remains the same: to shut down Line 5 and no oil tunnel. We are here today on the 15th anniversary of the Kalamazoo River oil spill so that history does not repeat itself,” underscoring the critical nature of this issue in the face of fossil fuel dependency and climate challenges.

Community members, including Iris Potter from Kalamazoo Remembers, shared personal accounts of the spill's immediate effects. Potter recounted, “The massive Enbridge oil spill into our Kalamazoo River was so toxic that when we went that day to see it firsthand, we quickly left, feeling ill from the smell. We knew it must never happen again.”

As inquiries continue regarding Enbridge's permit applications for a proposed tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac, environmentalists remain wary. Nichole Keway Biber, a Mid-Michigan Organizer for Clean Water Action, pointed out the age of Line 5, which has been in operation for over 70 years.

Beth Wallace from the National Wildlife Federation criticized the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for its apparent failure to conduct a thorough environmental risk assessment regarding the new tunnel. “Our own state agencies, the ones that were stuck here sucking oil out of the river, seem to be playing right into the hands of Enbridge,” she remarked, questioning the review process's integrity.

Sean McBrearty, Coordinator of the Oil and Water Don’t Mix campaign, highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant against corporate negligence. “This was entirely man-made. And it was only as big as it became because of the negligence of the people who know, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the federal government are asking us to trust the Great Lakes with,” McBrearty stated, advocating for ongoing activism to safeguard these vital water resources.

In response to these concerns, Enbridge emphasized their dedication to protecting the Great Lakes through the construction of the proposed tunnel. The company stated, “Enbridge’s commitment to safeguarding the Great Lakes, natural resources, and communities continues to drive our work behind building the Great Lakes Tunnel, and locating a new, replacement section of the Line 5 pipeline inside the protection of the tunnel, deep under the lakebed,” and they expressed a willingness to engage with the public.

EGLE is currently accepting public comments on the proposed tunnel until August 29, allowing concerned citizens to participate in the decision-making process. Public commentary can be submitted online or via mail. Furthermore, EGLE will host a virtual Q&A session on August 12 and a formal public hearing on August 19, offering additional opportunities for community input.