Dec 13, 2023 IPAA Comments on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Dakota Access Pipeline
Dear Mr. Cossette,
The Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). …
IPAA would like to specifically emphasize the critical importance of maintaining the existing pipeline crossing as defined in Alternative Three. This alternative has the least environmental and safety impact, is the most economic, and provides the most energy security for consumers, landowners, and tribal communities.
The existing DAPL crossing is a critical linchpin in the nation’s energy infrastructure. It has been constructed with meticulous attention to safety and environmental considerations. Maintaining this crossing is crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and uninterrupted transportation of crude oil. Altering the operations of the pipeline as suggested in several of the alternatives would not only impose significant financial and logistical burdens on the industry and the region, but also undermine the years of planning and investment that have gone into developing this critical energy asset. The strategic importance of this crossing is demonstrated by its robust construction, adherence to the highest safety standards, and its minimal environmental footprint. Maintaining the existing route and continued uninterrupted operation guarantees the least ecological impact while offering maximum efficiency.
