Line 3 pipeline

The original Line 3 pipeline began operating in 1968, initially owned by the Lakehead Pipeline Company.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/04/23/timeline-line-3-enbridge-oil-pipeline|title=Line 3 timeline: From construction to present day battles|last=Nelson|first=Cody|date=April 23, 2018|website=MPRNews|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627231941/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/04/23/timeline-line-3-enbridge-oil-pipeline|url-status=live}} The 34" wide, 1031-mile pipeline transports crude oil from Hardisty, Alberta,{{cite news |last1=Kelley |first1=Alexandra |title=Pipeline foes double down on efforts to halt Line 3 construction |url=https://thehill.com/changing-america/sustainability/environment/557410-pipeline-foes-double-down-on-efforts-to-halt-line |work=The Hill |date=June 8, 2021 |language=en}} to Superior, Wisconsin. The pipeline was not tested for flaws in its entirety until after 1976.{{cite news |last1=Laszewski |first1=Charles |title=Record '91 Pipeline Leak One of Many on 325-mile Route |work=St. Paul Pioneer Press |date=November 12, 1992}}

{{main|Line 3 oil spill}}

From the 1970s until the 1991 spill, the Line 3 pipeline suffered 24 leaks due to the same seam failure and was the source of 16 "large oil spills" resulting in four million gallons of oil spilled. Officials with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency estimated that a total of 5.7 million gallons had spilled from the Lakehead line from 1971 to 1992. The Line 3 pipeline was the origin of a 1.3 million gallon oil spill in Argyle in 1973.{{cite news |title=Company Revises Minnesota Oil Spill Upward to 1.7 Million Gallons |url=https://apnews.com/article/2d06afe9e6c0712a86b91309d7c4932b |work=AP News |date=March 13, 1991 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303130416/https://apnews.com/article/2d06afe9e6c0712a86b91309d7c4932b |archive-date=March 3, 2021 |url-status=live}} On March 3, 1991, the Line 3 pipeline ruptured in a wetland near Grand Rapids, Minnesota, spilling 1.7 million gallons of crude oil into the Prairie River, a tributary of the Mississippi River. It was the largest inland oil spill in the history of the United States of America. At the time of the 1991 spill, the pipeline carried 22 million gallons of oil every day.{{cite news |last1=Siple |first1=Julie |last2=Wareham |first2=Bill |last3=Kraker |first3=Dan |last4=Nelson |first4=Cody |title=Rivers of Oil, Episode 2: The largest inland spill |url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/06/20/rivers-of-oil-podcast-line3-pipeline-ep2-spill |work=MPR News |date=June 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304155331/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/06/20/rivers-of-oil-podcast-line3-pipeline-ep2-spill |archive-date=March 4, 2021 |url-status=live}}

File:Line 3 pipeline protest.jpg

Structural deformities, including numerous cracks and holes have developed along the pipeline over time.{{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|title=Line 3 EIS: Executive Summary|website=Minnesota Department of Commerce|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230839/https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|url-status=live}} Resulting concerns about the safety of the pipeline have led Enbridge to reduce the amount of oil transported daily. Due to concerns about the aging pipeline's leaks and spills, in 2014, Enbridge announced plans to build a replacement Line 3 pipeline. That multi-billion dollar project would allow Enbridge to restore their historic operating capacity and move nearly 800,000 barrels of oil per day.{{Cite web|url=https://portal.solomononline.com/Oil-Gas-Issues/Western-Canadian-Pipeline-Capacities-and-Flow-Will-We-Have-Enough-Pipeline-Capacity-After-2021|title=Western Canadian Pipeline Capacities and Flow: Will We Have Enough Pipeline Capacity After 2021?|last=Solomon Associates|date=March 14, 2019|access-date=June 4, 2019|archive-date=June 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604030808/https://portal.solomononline.com/Oil-Gas-Issues/Western-Canadian-Pipeline-Capacities-and-Flow-Will-We-Have-Enough-Pipeline-Capacity-After-2021|url-status=live}} By 2016, governing bodies in Canada,{{Cite web|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/enbridge-neb-line3-replacement-oilpatch-1.3551964|title=NEB approves Enbridge Line 3 pipeline replacement|last=Bakx|first=Kyle|date=April 25, 2016|website=CBC|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630231103/https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/enbridge-neb-line3-replacement-oilpatch-1.3551964|url-status=live}} North Dakota,{{Cite web|url=http://www.grandforksherald.com/news/4112645-sandpiper-deferred-enbridge-moving-forward-line-3-replacement|title=Sandpiper deferred, but Enbridge is moving forward with Line 3 replacement|last=Liedke|first=Mattew|date=September 10, 2016|website=Grand Forks Herald|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015600/http://www.grandforksherald.com/news/4112645-sandpiper-deferred-enbridge-moving-forward-line-3-replacement|url-status=live}} and Wisconsin{{Cite web|url=https://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/environment/wisconsin-dnr-approves-enbridge-oil-line/article_abf7118c-cf96-5866-8339-2e429bc9f8a9.html|title=Wisconsin DNR approves 1 Enbridge oil line|last=Verburg|first=Steven|date=August 30, 2016|website=Wisconsin State Journal|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230827/https://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/environment/wisconsin-dnr-approves-enbridge-oil-line/article_abf7118c-cf96-5866-8339-2e429bc9f8a9.html|url-status=live}} had approved their segments of the pipeline. Construction of the new Line 3 was completed everywhere but Minnesota by November 2020.{{Cite web|title=Line 3 Replacement Project (U.S.)|url=https://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/minnesota-projects/line-3-replacement-project|url-status=live|website=Enbridge|access-date=2021-04-22|archive-date=2021-04-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003811/https://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/minnesota-projects/line-3-replacement-project}}{{Cite web|title=Line 3 Replacement Program (Canada)|url=https://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/line-3-replacement-program/line-3-replacement-program-canada|url-status=live|website=Enbridge|access-date=2021-04-22|archive-date=2021-04-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003810/https://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/line-3-replacement-program/line-3-replacement-program-canada}}

The permitting process has been more complicated in Minnesota where climate justice organizations, American Indian groups, and government agencies have resisted the project.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/03/05/line-3-project-delay-leaves-supporters-opponents-hopeful|title=Line 3 project delay leaves supporters, opponents hopeful|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=March 5, 2019|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208042858/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/03/05/line-3-project-delay-leaves-supporters-opponents-hopeful|archive-date=December 8, 2019|access-date=}} Enbridge agreed to a new route for the replacement line, avoiding more sensitive watersheds and some Indian reservations. In 2018, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) solicited public input about the project.{{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/puc/assets/2018_04_23_Line_3_ALJ_Report_tcm14-336840.pdf?sourcePage=%2fpuc%2fline3%2fdocuments%2findex.jsp%3fnull|title=STATE OF MINNESOTA, OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS, FOR THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION; In the Matter of the Application of Enbridge Energy, Limited Partnership, for a Certificate of Need for the Line 3 Project in Minnesota from the North Dakota Border to the Wisconsin Border; In the Matter of the Application of Applicant Enbridge Energy, Limited Partnership for a Routing Permit for the Line 3 Project in Minnesota from the North Dakota Border to the Wisconsin Border; FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS OF LAW, AND RECOMMENDATION|website=Minnesota Public Utilities Commission|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230717/https://mn.gov/puc/assets/2018_04_23_Line_3_ALJ_Report_tcm14-336840.pdf?sourcePage=%2fpuc%2fline3%2fdocuments%2findex.jsp%3fnull|url-status=live}} Of the nearly 70,000 individual comments submitted, 68,244, or 94%, were in opposition. Nevertheless, in June 2018 the PUC approved Enbridge's modified route and granted the Certificate of Need and Route Permit, both necessary for the project.{{Cite web|url=http://kstp.com/news/enbridge-line-three-state-regulators-public-utilities-commission-vote/4968065/|title=State Regulators Approve Enbridge Pipeline Proposal Certificate of Need|date=June 28, 2018|website=5 ABC: Eyewitness News|access-date=June 29, 2018|archive-date=June 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629004730/http://kstp.com/news/enbridge-line-three-state-regulators-public-utilities-commission-vote/4968065/|url-status=live}}

As of December 2020, Minnesota state and federal regulators had granted Enbridge all of the permits required to construct the last stretch of the Line 3 pipeline through Minnesota.{{Cite web|last1=Lovrien|first1=Jimmy|last2=Ferguson|first2=Dana|date=November 30, 2020|title=Final permit for Enbridge Line 3 project OK'd by Minnesota Pollution Control Agency|url=https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/business/energy-and-mining/6781983-Final-permit-for-Enbridge-Line-3-project-OKd-by-Minnesota-Pollution-Control-Agency|url-status=live|website=Duluth News Tribune|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003819/https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/business/energy-and-mining/6781983-Final-permit-for-Enbridge-Line-3-project-OKd-by-Minnesota-Pollution-Control-Agency}} The permits for this project have been consistently contested by Indigenous communities, environmental justice organizations, and the Minnesota Department of Commerce.{{Cite web|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=June 3, 2019|title=MN court says PUC didn't weigh oil spill impact in Line 3 pipeline decision|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/06/03/line3-oil-pipeline-minnesota-court-environement-spill-impact|url-status=live|website=MPR|access-date=September 9, 2019|archive-date=September 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190902164544/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/06/03/line3-oil-pipeline-minnesota-court-environement-spill-impact}} Although several of the pipeline's main permits were still facing appeals in court,{{Cite web|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=March 23, 2021|title=MN appeals court hears arguments in Line 3 challenge, asking whether state needs another oil pipeline|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/03/23/mn-appeals-court-hears-arguments-in-line-3-challenge|url-status=live|website=MPR|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003812/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/03/23/mn-appeals-court-hears-arguments-in-line-3-challenge}} regulatory agencies had granted the remaining permits to Enbridge to begin construction by November 2020.

Enbridge began construction of the new Line 3 oil pipeline across northern Minnesota in December 2020, shortly after final permits were issued.{{Cite web|last=Ibrahim|first=Mohamed|date=December 1, 2020|title=Enbridge starts construction on Line 3 in Minnesota|url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/enbridge-starts-construction-line-minnesota-74489881|url-status=live|website=ABC News|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003810/https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/enbridge-starts-construction-line-minnesota-74489881}} The Biden administration supported the pipeline.{{cite news |date=July 24, 2021 |title=Biden Administration Backs Oil Sands Pipeline Project |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/24/climate/line-3-pipeline-biden.html |work=The New York Times}} However, the pipeline still faced significant resistance until its completion in September 2021.{{cite news |title='Squad' members call on Biden to shut down Line 3 pipeline in Minnesota |url=https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/570779-squad-members-call-on-biden-to-shut-down-line-3-pipeline-in |work=The Hill |date=September 3, 2021}} The pipeline expansion became operational on 1 October 2021.{{Cite web|title=Enbridge says Line 3 replacement complete, opens Friday|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/09/29/enbridge-says-line-3-replacement-complete-opens-friday|date= September 29, 2021|access-date=January 3, 2022|website=MPR News}}

File:Vandalism of Chase Bank in Chicago.jpg

{{main|Stop Line 3 protests}}

Several parties, including Ojibwe tribes, environmental organizations, and the Minnesota Department of Commerce, are still appealing the project in court. In March 2021, the Minnesota Court of Appeals heard testimony from Enbridge, the PUC, and appealing parties.{{Cite web|last=Ibrahim|first=Mohamed|date=March 21, 2021|title=Enbridge Line 3 pipeline argued in appeals court|url=https://indiancountrytoday.com/news/enbridge-line-3-pipeline-argued-in-appeals-court|url-status=live|website=Indian Country Today|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003813/https://indiancountrytoday.com/news/enbridge-line-3-pipeline-argued-in-appeals-court}} The plaintiffs brought forth several challenges to the pipeline, most notably questioning whether the energy transfer company had ever proved that there would be enough continued demand for tar sands oil to justify construction of Line 3. A ruling is expected on the appeals in June 2021 which could lead to a revocation of Enbridge's permits for construction.{{Cite web|last=Lovrien|first=Jimmy|date=March 23, 2021|title=Judges question whether Enbridge, regulators actually proved Line 3 is needed|url=https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/business/energy-and-mining/6947540-Judges-question-whether-Enbridge-regulators-actually-proved-Line-3-is-needed|url-status=live|website=Duluth News Tribune|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003820/https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/business/energy-and-mining/6947540-Judges-question-whether-Enbridge-regulators-actually-proved-Line-3-is-needed}}

Outside the courts, American Indian-led groups had organized opposition to Line 3, delaying construction along the pipeline route through non-violent direct action and protest.{{Cite web|last=Arvin|first=Jariel|date=March 25, 2021|title=The Indigenous-led fight to stop the Line 3 oil pipeline expansion in Minnesota, explained|url=https://www.vox.com/22333724/oil-pipeline-expansion-protest-minnesota-biden-climate-change|url-status=live|website=Vox|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003810/https://www.vox.com/22333724/oil-pipeline-expansion-protest-minnesota-biden-climate-change}} Groups like the Giniw Collective,{{Cite web|last=Regan|first=Sheila|date=February 19, 2021|title='It's cultural genocide': inside the fight to stop a pipeline on tribal lands|url=https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/feb/19/line-3-pipeline-ojibwe-tribal-lands|url-status=live|website=The Guardian|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003808/https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/feb/19/line-3-pipeline-ojibwe-tribal-lands}} Camp Migizi,{{Cite web|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=March 25, 2021|title=Line 3 construction brings complication, controversy to Fond du Lac Reservation|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/03/25/line-3-construction-brings-complication-controversy-to-fond-du-lac-reservation|url-status=live|website=MPR|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003810/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/03/25/line-3-construction-brings-complication-controversy-to-fond-du-lac-reservation}} Honor the Earth,{{Cite web|last=Arvin|first=Jariel|date=March 21, 2021|title=The Indigenous-led fight to stop the Line 3 oil pipeline expansion in Minnesota, explained|url=https://www.vox.com/22333724/oil-pipeline-expansion-protest-minnesota-biden-climate-change|url-status=live|website=Vox|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003810/https://www.vox.com/22333724/oil-pipeline-expansion-protest-minnesota-biden-climate-change}} and the RISE Coalition{{Cite web|last=Engelfried|first=Nick|date=December 14, 2020|title=Indigenous-led resistance to Enbridge's Line 3 pipeline threatens Big Oil's last stand|url=https://wagingnonviolence.org/2020/12/indigenous-water-protectors-enbridge-line-3-pipeline-big-oil-last-stand/|url-status=live|website=Waging Nonviolence|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=March 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302053538/https://wagingnonviolence.org/2020/12/indigenous-water-protectors-enbridge-line-3-pipeline-big-oil-last-stand/}} staged dozens of protests attended by thousands of people in the first four months of construction.{{Cite web|last=Pollack|first=Nicole|date=March 8, 2021|title=As the Line 3 Pipeline Pushes Forward, Water Protectors Push Back|url=https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/line-3-pipeline-pushes-forward-water-protectors-push-back|url-status=live|website=Sierra|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003819/https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/line-3-pipeline-pushes-forward-water-protectors-push-back}} As of April 2021, more than 200 people had been arrested for protesting along the pipeline route.{{Cite web|last1=Koenig|first1=Kailani|last2=Perry|first2=Cal|date=March 26, 2021|title=A fight is brewing over an oil pipeline and it's pitting Native groups against Big Oil|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/fight-brewing-over-oil-pipeline-it-s-pitting-native-groups-n1262240|url-status=live|website=NBC News|access-date=April 22, 2021|archive-date=April 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422003809/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/fight-brewing-over-oil-pipeline-it-s-pitting-native-groups-n1262240}} At the time of the pipeline's completion, nearly 900 people were facing charges related to pipeline resistance in northern Minnesota.{{Cite news|last=Marohn|first=Kristi|date=4 October 2021|title=Criminal Cases Against Line 3 Protesters Clog Court System|work=U.S. News & World Report|url=https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/minnesota/articles/2021-10-04/criminal-cases-against-line-3-protesters-clog-court-system|access-date=3 January 2022}}

On June 7, 2021, protesters referring to themselves as water protectors organized a gathering at the White Earth Indian Reservation. The gathering, attended by "around 2,500 people",{{Cite web|date=2021-06-08|title=Jane Fonda slams Biden as not 'bold or fast' enough on climate crisis amid oil line protest|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/jane-fonda-line-3-pipeline-minnesota-b1861997.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220614/https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/jane-fonda-line-3-pipeline-minnesota-b1861997.html |archive-date=2022-06-14 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=2021-06-09|website=The Independent|language=en}} culminated in two direct actions. Over 200 protesters occupied an Enbridge pumping station and barricaded access.{{Cite web|date=2021-06-07|title=Protesters clash with police at Enbridge pipeline construction site in Minnesota|url=https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/protesters-clash-with-police-enbridge-pipeline-construction-site-minnesota-2021-06-07/|access-date=2021-06-09|website=Reuters}} Subsequently, police in riot gear began making arrests.{{Cite news|last1=Tabuchi |first1=Hiroko |author-link=Hiroko Tabuchi |last2=Furber |first2=Matt |last3=Davenport |first3=Coral |date=2021-06-07 |title=Police Make Mass Arrests at Protest Against Oil Pipeline |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/07/climate/line-3-pipeline-protest-native-americans.html |access-date=2021-06-09 |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web|last=Thompson|first=Darren|title=Line 3 Resistance Grows, Hundreds Camped at Mississippi as Hundreds were Arrested in Hubbard County|url=https://nativenewsonline.net/currents/line-3-resistance-grows-hundreds-camped-at-mississippi-as-hundreds-were-arrested-in-hubbard-county|access-date=2021-06-09|website=Native News Online|date=8 June 2021 |language=en-GB}} 247 people were arrested. 68 were released after receiving citations for unlawful assembly and public nuisance while another 179 were charged with trespassing.{{cite news |last1=Kolpack |first1=Dave |title=Police say nearly 250 arrested in Minnesota pipeline protest |url=https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-minnesota-arrests-business-1523d769d7a7e097503f4088c420065b |work=AP News |date=June 9, 2021 |access-date=June 13, 2021 |archive-date=June 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610140625/https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-minnesota-arrests-business-1523d769d7a7e097503f4088c420065b |url-status=live }}

File:Vandalism_of_statue_of_Andrew_Jackson.jpg

The Equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson in Lafayette Square just to the northern front of the White House was vandalized with the words "Expect Us" on Columbus Day, on October 11, 2021. Protesters had been chanting "respect us or expect us" in response to protesting the Line 3 pipeline in Minnesota that runs through lands owned by American Indian tribes who were concerned that the pipeline could spill and ruin the land they use to hunt, fish, gather, and farm.{{cite web|last=Severi|first=Misty|url=https://www.yahoo.com/now/respect-us-expect-us-andrew-175100610.html|title='Respect us or expect us': Andrew Jackson statue vandalized in front of White House |date=October 11, 2021 |access-date=October 13, 2021}}

{{Pro and con list|section|date=August 2021}}

File:Select crude oil pipelines in the United States and Canada as of October 1, 2021 (51654881015).png

File:Defund line 3 protest.jpg branch in Seattle (February 2021).]]

Much of the resistance to the Line 3 project comes from concerns over climate change. Climate justice groups such as the North Star Chapter of the Sierra Club,{{Cite web|url=https://www.sierraclub.org/sites/www.sierraclub.org/files/sce/north-star-chapter/pdf/Line3FactSheet.pdf|title=Line 3 and the Pipeline System|website=Sierra Club North Star Chapter|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2017-10-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171016092306/http://www.sierraclub.org/sites/www.sierraclub.org/files/sce/north-star-chapter/pdf/Line3FactSheet.pdf|url-status=live}} MN350,{{Cite web|url=http://www.mn350.org/pipeline-resistance/|title=Pipeline Resistance|website=MN350|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230654/http://www.mn350.org/pipeline-resistance/|url-status=live}} and Honor the Earth{{Cite web|url=http://www.honorearth.org/sandpiper_line_3_corridor|title=Line 3|website=Honor the Earth|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230721/http://www.honorearth.org/sandpiper_line_3_corridor|url-status=live}} have campaigns to "Stop Line 3."{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=|title=Stop the Line 3 Pipeline|url=https://www.stopline3.org/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702041700/https://www.stopline3.org/|archive-date=2018-07-02|access-date=|website=Stop Line 3}} The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which was conducted by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, explains how the new Line 3 pipeline would contribute to deforestation, increase risk of pollution to Minnesota's pristine water ecosystems and wild rice beds, and generate the greenhouse gasses that contribute to climate change. In fact, a study authored by over a dozen climate justice organizations found that the greenhouse gas emissions from constructing the new Line 3 pipeline would be equivalent to building 50 new coal-fired power plants.{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=|title=A Giant Step Backward|url=http://priceofoil.org/content/uploads/2020/01/Giant-Step-Backward-report-01-29-19-FINAL-online-version.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030232238/http://priceofoil.org/content/uploads/2020/01/Giant-Step-Backward-report-01-29-19-FINAL-online-version.pdf|archive-date=2020-10-30|access-date=|website=Price of Oil}} The EIS estimated that the social cost of carbon from those emissions would total more than $120 billion over 30 years.{{Cite web|url=https://www.minnpost.com/environment/2019/06/a-setback-for-line-3-what-the-latest-court-ruling-means-for-the-future-of-the-project/|title=A setback for Line 3: What the latest court ruling means for the future of the project|last=Orenstein|first=Walker|date=June 4, 2019|website=MinnPost|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823222531/https://www.minnpost.com/environment/2019/06/a-setback-for-line-3-what-the-latest-court-ruling-means-for-the-future-of-the-project/|archive-date=August 23, 2019|access-date=}} The MN Department of Commerce under Governor Mark Dayton formally denounced the proposed Line 3 project on environmental grounds.{{Cite web|url=http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/4326044-enbridge-line-3-replacement-not-needed-minn-commerce-department-says|title=Enbridge Line 3 replacement not needed, Minn. commerce department says|last=Johnson|first=Brooks|date=September 11, 2017|website=Bemidji Pioneer|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230831/http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/4326044-enbridge-line-3-replacement-not-needed-minn-commerce-department-says|url-status=live}}

{{Blockquote|text=In light of the serious risks and effects on the natural and socioeconomic environments of the existing Line 3 and the limited benefit that the existing Line 3 provides to Minnesota refineries, it is reasonable to conclude that Minnesota would be better off if Enbridge proposed to cease operations of the existing Line 3, without any new pipeline being built.|sign=Minnesota Department of Commerce|source=The Bemidji Pioneer}}

Although the appeal was supported twice by Governor Tim Walz's administration,{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/02/12/line-3-pipeline-walz-decision|title=Walz's Commerce Dept. to renew Line 3 appeal|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=February 12, 2019|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328175344/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/02/12/line-3-pipeline-walz-decision|archive-date=March 28, 2020|access-date=}}{{Cite web|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=18 August 2020|title=Walz administration keeps up fight against Line 3|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2020/08/18/walz-administration-keeps-up-fight-against-line-3|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101114439/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2020/08/18/walz-administration-keeps-up-fight-against-line-3|archive-date=2020-11-01|access-date=|website=Minnesota Public Radio}} they subsequently withdrew support on 12 November 2020. Four days later 12 out of 17 of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's Environmental Justice Advisory Group resigned.{{cite web |last1=Timar-Wilcox |first1=Estelle |title=Line 3 protests escalate after Walz administration greenlights construction |url=https://themacweekly.com/79231/home/line-3-protests-escalate-after-walz-administration-greenlights-construction/ |website=The Mac Weekly |access-date=31 August 2024 |date=20 November 2020}}

{{Blockquote|text=The decision to approve the permit sends a clear message that the Walz Administration and the MPCA hold no regard for the well-being of Minnesotans or our relatives around the world, who depend on us to dramatically, rapidly, and justly transition our economies away from fossil fuels.

This is the final straw after increasing disappointment in the MPCA’s failure to build on the hard work of dedicated EJAG members over the years. The transition to a new commissioner has set back the EJAG’s work, and the EJAG has since been excluded from important decisions that affect how the group is managed. EJAG members were not consulted on the hiring of an outside facilitator, nor on the divvying of group members into work groups. EJAG members have also experienced dismissal, being discouraged from sharing honest thoughts and opinions. This is not how an advisory group should be engaged to appropriately respect the wisdom being sought.|sign=EJAG resignation letter|source={{cite web |title=DocumentCloud |url=https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20407470-nov-16-2020-ejag-group-letter-of-resignation-1?fbclid=IwAR1W_UaP48OX7aaTh2MX64FzCvyG97XztGa5Wlu_qyfUh_QgGHIAHJNQeA0 |website=www.documentcloud.org |publisher=Walker Orenstein (MinnPost) |access-date=31 August 2024}}}}

In February 2021, U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar called on President Joe Biden to stop the construction of the pipeline: "The decision that U.S. entities make on Line 3 is a decision made for the entire world, and for all coming generations of humanity. I urge you to make the one decision supported by the scientific consensus on climate change: Stop Line 3." A press release cited how the pipeline would "add five times as much greenhouse gas annually as Minnesota transportation produced in total in 2016."{{Cite web|date=3 February 2021|title=Rep. Ilhan Omar calls on Biden to Reject Line 3 Pipeline|url=https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-calls-biden-reject-line-3-pipeline|url-status=live|website=Ilhan Omar|access-date=1 March 2021|archive-date=24 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224195825/https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ilhan-omar-calls-biden-reject-line-3-pipeline}}

{{main|Line 3 oil spill}}

Many people are concerned about potential oil spills along Line 3.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/03/27/line-3-enbridge-minnesota-spill-fears-versus-safety|title=Spill fears rise even as Line 3 backers vow new pipeline will be safe|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=May 27, 2019|website=MPRNews|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627231727/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/03/27/line-3-enbridge-minnesota-spill-fears-versus-safety|url-status=live}} Among other accidental releases, the original Line 3 pipeline was responsible for the largest ever inland oil spill in the U.S. In 1991, 1.7 million gallons of oil ruptured from Line 3 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.{{Cite web|url=https://apnews.com/2d06afe9e6c0712a86b91309d7c4932b|title=Company Revises Minnesota Oil Spill Upward to 1.7 Million Gallons|date=March 13, 1991|website=AP News|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230909/https://apnews.com/2d06afe9e6c0712a86b91309d7c4932b|url-status=live}} Enbridge was also responsible for the 2010 Kalamazoo River oil spill in Michigan. Cleanup of that spill cost over a billion dollars and took nearly a decade. In total, Enbridge has overseen over 800 oil spills between 1999 and 2010. The resulting pollution has adversely affected the economy,{{Cite web|url=https://fox17online.com/2016/07/20/2010-enbridge-oil-spill-in-kalamazoo-river-a-lasting-effect-on-local-business/|title=2010 Enbridge oil spill in Kalamazoo River: a lasting effect on local business|last=Chicklas|first=Dana|date=July 20, 2016|website=FOX 17 West Michigan|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015518/https://fox17online.com/2016/07/20/2010-enbridge-oil-spill-in-kalamazoo-river-a-lasting-effect-on-local-business/|url-status=live}} public health,{{Cite web|url=https://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdch/Enbridge_Sediment__BLUE_FINAL_5-23-2012_387874_7.pdf|title=Public Health Assessment Kalamazoo River/Enbridge Spill|date=May 23, 2012|website=Michigan Department of Community Health|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=April 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170430031805/http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdch/Enbridge_Sediment__BLUE_FINAL_5-23-2012_387874_7.pdf|url-status=live}} and the environment{{Cite web|url=https://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/785.html|title=For Immediate Release: Enbridge Must Restore Environment Injured by 2010 Kalamazoo River Oil Spill|last=Parham|first=Georgia|date=June 8, 2015|website=U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015440/https://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/785.html|url-status=live}} in Michigan. Enbridge has reassured the public that pipeline safety is their primary goal, and they employ technology to monitor their pipelines and train employees on emergency response.{{Cite web|url=https://www.enbridge.com/~/media/Enb/Documents/Projects/line5/Our_commitment_to_pipeline_safety.pdf?la=en|title=Our commitment to pipeline safety|website=Enbridge|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015555/https://www.enbridge.com/~/media/Enb/Documents/Projects/line5/Our_commitment_to_pipeline_safety.pdf?la=en|url-status=live}} While big oil spills (>238 barrels of oil) have decreased in recent years,{{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|title=Line 3 EIS: Chapter 10 - Accidental Crude Oil Releases|website=Minnesota Department of Commerce|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230839/https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|url-status=live}} activists in Minnesota say that the potential for even one serious spill is too much of a risk. The Environmental Impact Statement of Line 3 acknowledges that some accidental release of oil is inevitable and that serious oil spills are possible.

File:Line_3_Pipeline_Honor_Treaties.jpg with an "Honor Our Treaties #StopLine3" sign outside the MN Public Utilities Commission hearing on the Line 3 pipeline.]]

Some American Indian communities in Minnesota have opposed the project on the basis of treaty rights. Most of the land in northern Minnesota was ceded to the U.S. through treaties with Ojibwe peoples throughout the 1800s.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/02/01/explaining-minnesota-ojibwe-treaties#map|title=Explaining Minnesota's 1837, 1854 and 1855 Ojibwe treaties|last=Enger|first=John|date=February 1, 2016|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190831051005/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/02/01/explaining-minnesota-ojibwe-treaties#map|archive-date=August 31, 2019|access-date=}} Those treaties established reservations, as well as land use rights for Ojibwe people to hunt, fish, and harvest manoomin (wild rice) on the rest of the ceded territory.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sierraclub.org/sites/www.sierraclub.org/files/sce/north-star-chapter/pdf/TreatRightsFactSheet.pdf|title=Line 3 and Treaty Rights|last=|first=|date=|website=Sierra Club North Star Chapter|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190617102229/https://www.sierraclub.org/sites/www.sierraclub.org/files/sce/north-star-chapter/pdf/TreatRightsFactSheet.pdf|archive-date=2019-06-17|access-date=}} The proposed route for the new Line 3 pipeline would cross through that protected land.{{Cite web|url=https://static1.squarespace.com/static/58a3c10abebafb5c4b3293ac/t/5b8ee947aa4a99a54b5d275e/1536092488649/factsheet+TREATY+RIGHTS.pdf|title=Treaty Rights and Oil Pipelines: What You Need to Know|last=|first=|date=|website=Honor the Earth|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210111155026/https://static1.squarespace.com/static/58a3c10abebafb5c4b3293ac/t/5b8ee947aa4a99a54b5d275e/1536092488649/factsheet+TREATY+RIGHTS.pdf|archive-date=2021-01-11|access-date=}} Several Ojibwe communities have said that construction of the pipeline would violate treaty rights by disrupting and threatening the resources promised to them on their ancestral land. The Environmental Impact Statement acknowledges that construction of Line 3 would disrupt indian historic and cultural sites such as burial grounds.{{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|title=Line 3 EIS: Chapter 9 - Tribal Resources|website=Minnesota Department of Commerce|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230839/https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|url-status=live}} However, a complete Traditional Cultural Properties Survey has not been conducted of the proposed route.{{Cite web|url=http://www.startribune.com/tribes-ask-puc-to-reconsider-review-of-new-enbridge-pipeline-route-saying-cultural-study-wasn-t-done/468049673/|title=Tribes ask PUC to reconsider review of new Enbridge pipeline route, saying cultural study wasn't done|last=Hughlett|first=Mike|date=January 4, 2018|website=Star Tribune|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230909/http://www.startribune.com/tribes-ask-puc-to-reconsider-review-of-new-enbridge-pipeline-route-saying-cultural-study-wasn-t-done/468049673/|url-status=live}}

Five Ojibwe bands have resisted the pipeline replacement project in court. The White Earth, Red Lake, Mille Lacs, Fond du Lac, and Leech Lake bands all opposed the pipeline and held status as intervening parties against the project in the PUC's initial permit deliberations.{{Cite web|url=https://www.stopline3.org/news/5tribes|title=5 Ojibwe Tribes Intervene in Minnesota's Contested Case Process for Line 3|date=July 13, 2017|website=Stop Line 3|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230854/https://www.stopline3.org/news/5tribes|url-status=live}} After the PUC's June 2017 approval, the White Earth and Red Lake bands were part of a joint appeal of the Certificate of Need,{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/12/19/line-3-pipeline-opponents-file-suit-challenging-state-approval|title=Line 3 pipeline opponents file suit challenging state approval|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=December 19, 2018|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190913203031/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/12/19/line-3-pipeline-opponents-file-suit-challenging-state-approval|archive-date=September 13, 2019|access-date=}} while the Mille Lacs, White Earth, and Red Lake bands appealed the Environmental Impact Statement.{{Cite web|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=June 3, 2019|title=MN court says PUC didn't weigh oil spill impact in Line 3 pipeline decision|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/06/03/line3-oil-pipeline-minnesota-court-environement-spill-impact|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190902164544/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2019/06/03/line3-oil-pipeline-minnesota-court-environement-spill-impact|archive-date=September 2, 2019|access-date=|website=MPRNews}} In August 2018, the Fond du Lac band signed a right-of-way agreement with Enbridge, allowing the company to route the pipeline through their reservation.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/08/31/enbridge-fond-du-lac-band-reach-deal-route-line-3-oil-pipeline-through-reservation|title=Enbridge, Fond du Lac Band reach deal to route Line 3 through reservation|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=August 31, 2018|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191113200429/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2018/08/31/enbridge-fond-du-lac-band-reach-deal-route-line-3-oil-pipeline-through-reservation|archive-date=November 13, 2019|access-date=}} Ahead of that decision, Tribal council chairman Kevin Dupuis, Sr., said “as a sovereign nation, we are confounded that we are being forced to choose between two evils as both routes pass through our lands,” either through the reservation or ceded treaty land.{{Cite web|url=https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/4481322-fond-du-lac-band-says-all-options-open-regarding-line-3|title=Fond du Lac Band says all options open regarding Line 3|last=|first=|date=August 3, 2018|website=Duluth News Tribune|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190104102713/https://duluthnewstribune.com/news/4481322-fond-du-lac-band-says-all-options-open-regarding-line-3|archive-date=January 4, 2019|access-date=}} The Leech Lake Band also stepped back from formal appeals in December 2018 when Enbridge agreed to remove the old pipeline from their reservation if construction of the new pipeline begins.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/4543486-leech-lake-enbridge-reach-agreement-remove-existing-line-3-if-new-pipeline-built|title=Leech Lake, Enbridge reach agreement to remove existing Line 3 if new pipeline is built|last=Bowen|first=Joseph|date=December 14, 2018|website=The Bemidji Pioneer|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200426070238/https://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/4543486-leech-lake-enbridge-reach-agreement-remove-existing-line-3-if-new-pipeline-built|archive-date=April 26, 2020|access-date=}}

American Indian activists and their allies are bringing awareness to the connection between fossil fuel infrastructure projects like Line 3 and increased drug and sex trafficking in and around Native American reservations.{{Cite web|url=https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/magazine/entry/moving-more-than-oil/|title=Moving More than Oil: The intimate link between human trafficking and dirty energy in Minnesota|last=Walsh|first=Kayla|date=|website=Earth Island Journal|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214416/https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/magazine/entry/moving-more-than-oil/|archive-date=2020-03-28|access-date=}} While oil pipelines like Line 3 are being built, the construction workers stay in concentrated, temporary housing along the route, often known as “man camps.”{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/national/2014/09/28/dark-side-of-the-boom/|title=Dark side of the boom: North Dakota's oil rush brings cash and promise to reservation, along with drug-fueled crime|last=Horwitz|first=Sari|date=September 28, 2014|newspaper=The Washington Post|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602224919/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/national/2014/09/28/dark-side-of-the-boom/|archive-date=June 2, 2021|access-date=}} The high wages and social isolation in man camps lead to increased drug use, as well as violence perpetrated by employees on the surrounding Native communities.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2016/09/29/sexual-assault-pipeline/3jQscLWRcmD12cfefQTNsL/story.html|title=Sexual assault on the pipeline|last1=Kathryn Nagle|first1=Mary|last2=Steinem|first2=Gloria|date=September 29, 2016|website=Boston Globe|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413030641/https://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2016/09/29/sexual-assault-pipeline/3jQscLWRcmD12cfefQTNsL/story.html|archive-date=April 13, 2020|access-date=}} In 2019, American Indian and climate justice activists held a “March on Enbridge to Protect the Sacred,” at the Enbridge terminal in the city of Clearbrook, Minnesota.{{Cite web|url=https://inthesetimes.com/article/22116/indigenous-peoples-day-anishnabeeg-leaders-march-against-line-3-pipeline|title=On Indigenous People's Day, Anishinaabeg Leaders March Against Enbridge's $7.5 Billion Oil Pipeline|last=Diehl|first=Amelia|date=October 14, 2019|website=In These Times|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200502135513/https://inthesetimes.com/article/22116/indigenous-peoples-day-anishnabeeg-leaders-march-against-line-3-pipeline|archive-date=May 2, 2020|access-date=}} They demanded an end to the Line 3 project citing, among other things, “the direct link between the fossil fuel industry and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives.”{{Cite web|url=https://unicornriot.ninja/2019/march-to-protect-the-sacred-on-indigenous-peoples-day-2019/|title=March to Protect The Sacred on Indigenous People's Day 2019|last=|first=|date=October 14, 2019|website=Unicorn Riot|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214417/https://unicornriot.ninja/2019/march-to-protect-the-sacred-on-indigenous-peoples-day-2019/|archive-date=March 28, 2020|access-date=}} The Environmental Impact Statement on Line 3 acknowledges that connection as well, saying “The addition of a temporary, cash-rich workforce increases the likelihood that sex trafficking or sexual abuse will occur.”{{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/eera/web/project-file?legacyPath=/opt/documents/34079/Line3%20FEIS%20Ch%2011%20Environmental%20Justice%20Complete.pdf|title="Line 3 EIS: Chapter 11 - Environmental Justice"|last=|first=|date=|website=Department of Commerce|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803122843/https://mn.gov/eera/web/project-file?legacyPath=%2Fopt%2Fdocuments%2F34079%2FLine3%20FEIS%20Ch%2011%20Environmental%20Justice%20Complete.pdf|archive-date=2020-08-03|access-date=}} Under the EIS, Enbridge was required to prepare a Human Trafficking Prevention Plan for the project.{{Cite web|url=https://healingmnstories.wordpress.com/2019/09/12/public-utilities-commission-enbridge-need-to-go-back-to-square-one-on-line-3s-human-trafficking-prevention-plan/|title=Public Utilities Commission, Enbridge need to go back to square one on Line 3's Human Trafficking Prevention Plan|last=|first=|date=September 12, 2019|website=Healing Minnesota Stories|language=|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200115013645/https://healingmnstories.wordpress.com/2019/09/12/public-utilities-commission-enbridge-need-to-go-back-to-square-one-on-line-3s-human-trafficking-prevention-plan/|archive-date=January 15, 2020|access-date=}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.enbridge.com/stories/2019/january/pavsa-duluth-fight-to-end-human-trafficking|title=More people are talking about it now': The fight to eliminate human trafficking|last=|first=|date=January 28, 2019|website=Enbridge|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214418/https://www.enbridge.com/stories/2019/january/pavsa-duluth-fight-to-end-human-trafficking|archive-date=March 28, 2020|access-date=}} Enbridge's plan has been critiqued, however, as a step made more to follow procedure than a true commitment to ending violence by their employees.{{Cite web|url=http://duluthreader.com/articles/2020/01/16/19289_new_faces_of_courage|title=New Faces of Courage|last=LaDuke|first=Winona|date=January 16, 2020|website=Duluth Reader|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214425/http://duluthreader.com/articles/2020/01/16/19289_new_faces_of_courage|archive-date=March 28, 2020|access-date=}} Groups of American Indian activists and climate justice organizers maintain opposition to the pipeline over the potential for increased violence and drug trafficking along the proposed pipeline route.{{Cite web|url=http://www.honorearth.org/man_camps_fact_sheet|title=Man Camps Fact Sheet|last=|first=|date=|website=Honor the Earth|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214416/http://www.honorearth.org/man_camps_fact_sheet|archive-date=2020-03-28|access-date=}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.stopline3.org/issues|title=Issues: Construction Impacts|last=|first=|date=|website=Stop Line 3|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214416/https://www.stopline3.org/issues|archive-date=2020-03-28|access-date=}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.sierraclub.org/minnesota/beyond-oil|title=Stop Line 3|last=|first=|date=22 June 2018|website=Sierra Club|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328214416/https://www.sierraclub.org/minnesota/beyond-oil|archive-date=2020-03-28|access-date=}}{{Cite web|url=https://mn350.org/2019/12/the-history-and-future-of-line-3-resistance/|title=The history and future of Line 3 resistance|last=Evelyn|first=Julia|date=13 December 2019|website=MN350|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200928212131/https://mn350.org/2019/12/the-history-and-future-of-line-3-resistance/|archive-date=2020-09-28|access-date=}}

File:Line 3 Pipeline Abandonment.jpg

The agreement between Enbridge and the Leech Lake Band centers on another debate about what will happen to the infrastructure of the old Line 3 pipeline if the new one is built. Enbridge proposed a process they call "deactivation." Many who oppose the project call this "abandonment."{{Cite web|title=Line 3 Abandonment Factsheet|url=http://www.pipelinecleanupmn.org/resources/line-3-abandonment-factsheet|website=Minnesotans for Pipeline Cleanup|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015552/http://www.pipelinecleanupmn.org/resources/line-3-abandonment-factsheet|url-status=live}} Enbridge explains deactivation of a pipeline as a 5 step process: remove the oil, clean the pipe, disconnect it from facilities, put corrosion controls in place, and then leave the pipe in the ground. Minnesotans for Pipeline Cleanup, an organization opposed to Line 3, has expressed concerns about the potential for pollutants to remain after the cleanup.{{Cite web|title=Enbridge's Mess An Historic Moment for Minnesota Landowners|url=http://www.pipelinecleanupmn.org/sites/default/files/2018-06/Pipeline%20Abandonment%20Report.pdf|website=Minnesotans for Pipeline Cleanup|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230833/http://www.pipelinecleanupmn.org/sites/default/files/2018-06/Pipeline%20Abandonment%20Report.pdf|url-status=live}} Many landowners along the old route worry that they will bear the financial burden for the decommissioned pipe, either through costs of cleanup, removal, or lost property value.{{Cite web|title=Chippewa Cumulative Impact Assessment: Chapter 4|url=https://www.mnchippewatribe.org/pdf/Chapter%204_Overview%20of%20projects_DRAFT.pdf|website=Minnesota Chippewa Tribe|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230835/https://www.mnchippewatribe.org/pdf/Chapter%204_Overview%20of%20projects_DRAFT.pdf|url-status=live}} Both the Pipeline Abandonment Report from Minnesotans for Pipeline Cleanup and the Chippewa Cumulative Impact Statement, written to supplement the EIS, mention that Line 3 would be the first pipeline ever to be decommissioned in Minnesota, and worry about what sort of precedent that might set.

Supporters of Line 3 cite job creation as a key reason to build the pipeline. A large study published by the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2017 claimed that the Line 3 Replacement Project would create thousands of jobs.{{Cite web|url=http://www.businessnorth.com/daily_briefing/new-study-economic-impact-of-enbridge-line-will-be-massive/article_dece3320-5048-11e7-9ecb-6f25872a903a.html|title=New study: Economic impact of Enbridge Line 3 will be massive|last=|first=|date=June 13, 2017|website=Business North|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190908172253/http://www.businessnorth.com/daily_briefing/new-study-economic-impact-of-enbridge-line-will-be-massive/article_dece3320-5048-11e7-9ecb-6f25872a903a.html|archive-date=September 8, 2019|access-date=}} However, later that year, investigative journalists uncovered that a business group funded by Enbridge, APEX, had financed the study, and that data inputs for it were provided by Enbridge themselves.{{Cite web|url=https://news.littlesis.org/2017/11/15/the-university-of-minnesota-duluth-sold-its-credibility-to-enbridge-can-it-get-it-back/|title=The University of Minnesota Duluth Sold Its Credibility to Enbridge. Can It Get It Back?|last=Seidman|first=Derek|date=November 15, 2017|website=Eyes on the Ties|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810151958/https://news.littlesis.org/2017/11/15/the-university-of-minnesota-duluth-sold-its-credibility-to-enbridge-can-it-get-it-back/|archive-date=August 10, 2020|access-date=}} In the end, a UMD Professor behind the research severed the school's ties with APEX.{{Cite web|url=https://news.littlesis.org/2017/12/21/update-univ-of-minnesota-duluth-professor-resigns-from-board-of-enbridge-backed-group-in-response-to-pai-report/|title=UPDATE: University of Minnesota Duluth Professor Resigns from Board of Enbridge-Backed Group in Response to PAI Report|last=Seidman|first=Derek|date=December 21, 2017|website=Eyes on the Ties|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209213428/https://news.littlesis.org/2017/12/21/update-univ-of-minnesota-duluth-professor-resigns-from-board-of-enbridge-backed-group-in-response-to-pai-report/|archive-date=December 9, 2019|access-date=}} While there might not be significant long term job creation, supporters assert that even some temporary employment would be a key source of income for numerous families in Minnesota.{{Cite web|url=https://www.virginiamn.com/mine/enbridge-poised-to-provide-jobs/article_545986cc-9b30-11e6-842b-1ffbb34f47f8.html|title=Enbridge poised to provide jobs|last=|first=|date=October 25, 2016|website=Mesabi Daily News|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625045711/http://www.virginiamn.com/mine/enbridge-poised-to-provide-jobs/article_545986cc-9b30-11e6-842b-1ffbb34f47f8.html|archive-date=June 25, 2017|access-date=}} The original EIS also distinguished between long and short term jobs, but came to different conclusions saying, "Based on the small number of permanent jobs, it is likely that operation of the pipeline would result in no to negligible impact on the per capita household income, median household income, or unemployment rates in the ROI (region of interest.)” {{Cite web|url=https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|title=Line 3 EIS: Chapter 5 - Existing Conditions, Impacts, and Mitigation - Certificate of Need|website=Minnesota Department of Commerce|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230839/https://mn.gov/commerce/energyfacilities/resource.html?Id=34735|url-status=live}} The pipeline's possible impact on jobs in Minnesota remains contested.

Line 3 supporters argue that counties along the proposed route will benefit from the revenue of Enbridge's property taxes.{{Cite web|url=https://minnesotansforline3.com/about-us/|title=The Line 3 Replacement Project: Safety, Efficiency, Jobs|website=Minnesotans for Line 3|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230857/https://minnesotansforline3.com/about-us/|url-status=live}} In the first year of the new pipeline's operations, Enbridge has been projected to pay $19.5 million in property taxes along the route.{{Cite web|url=http://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/minnesota-projects/line-3-replacement-project|title=Line 3 Replacement Project|website=Enbridge|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015509/http://www.enbridge.com/projects-and-infrastructure/public-awareness/minnesota-projects/line-3-replacement-project|url-status=live}} That number would increase over time. Those opposed to the pipeline are unconvinced about the promise of that revenue,{{Cite web|url=http://www.honorearth.org/understanding_the_minnesota_doc_s_opposition_testimony_for_line_3|title=Understanding the Minnesota DOC's Opposition Testimony for Line 3|website=Honor the Earth|access-date=2018-06-27|archive-date=2018-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230708/http://www.honorearth.org/understanding_the_minnesota_doc_s_opposition_testimony_for_line_3|url-status=live}} however, citing lawsuits in which Enbridge claimed that they had been overtaxed, and left counties across Minnesota in debt for tens of millions of dollars.{{Cite web|url=http://www.startribune.com/enbridge-prevails-in-minnesota-property-tax-challenge/482687251/|title=Enbridge prevails in Minnesota property tax challenge|last=Hughlett|first=Mike|date=May 15, 2018|website=Star Tribune|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628044112/http://www.startribune.com/enbridge-prevails-in-minnesota-property-tax-challenge/482687251/|url-status=live}}

Construction of the Line 3 pipeline would help the Canadian oil industry increase their production and stabilize prices. Enbridge has argued that Line 3 would help meet the demand of Minnesota's oil refineries,{{Cite web|url=https://www.mprnews.org/story/2017/10/11/enbridge-argues-line-3-oil-pipeline-needed-for-minnesota-region|title=Enbridge argues Line 3 oil pipeline needed for Minnesota, region|last=Kraker|first=Dan|date=October 11, 2017|website=MPRNews|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200306045135/https://www.mprnews.org/story/2017/10/11/enbridge-argues-line-3-oil-pipeline-needed-for-minnesota-region|archive-date=March 6, 2020|access-date=}} and they are not the only company hoping the pipeline is built. Line 3 is seen as key to the Canadian oil industry.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-03-02/enbridge-pipeline-delayed-a-year-in-hit-to-canadian-oil-industry|title=Enbridge Pipeline Delayed a Year in Hit to Canadian Oil Industry|last=Orland|first=Kevin|date=March 2, 2019|newspaper=Bloomberg.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191030203253/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-03-02/enbridge-pipeline-delayed-a-year-in-hit-to-canadian-oil-industry|archive-date=2019-10-30|access-date=}} Difficulty transporting oil out of Alberta has led to production cuts and price discounting.{{Cite web|url=https://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/Alberta-Enforces-87-Oil-Production-Cut.html|title=Alberta Enforces 8.7% Oil Production Cut|last=Slav|first=Irina|date=December 3, 2018|website=Oilprice.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191108045340/https://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/Alberta-Enforces-87-Oil-Production-Cut.html|archive-date=November 8, 2019|access-date=}} Thousands of Canadians have lost their jobs in oil infrastructure due to instability in Alberta's oil sands economy.{{Cite web|url=https://webvoyage.carli.illinois.edu/nby/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?ti=1,0&Search%5FArg=Walter%20Loomis%20Newberry&Search%5FCode=FT%2A&SL=None&CNT=10&PID=urzw9OgfoUNKX5jC52RRZ2M&SEQ=20190909231620&SID=4|title=Canada to lose 12,500 oil and gas jobs in 2019, report predicts, mostly in Alberta|last=|first=|date=April 8, 2019|website=|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602224909/https://webvoyage.carli.illinois.edu/nby/cgi-bin/Pwebrecon.cgi?ti=1%2C0&Search_Arg=Walter+Loomis+Newberry&Search_Code=FT%2A&SL=None&CNT=10&PID=urzw9OgfoUNKX5jC52RRZ2M&SEQ=20190909231620&SID=4|archive-date=June 2, 2021|access-date=}} Additionally, companies which are unable to ship their product through pipelines have considered expanding train shipments of oil. Recent studies have highlighted that train transportation of oil results in more regular spills than transport by pipe.{{Cite web|url=http://fortune.com/2016/08/28/pipelines-vs-trains-oil-transport/|title=Pipelines: The Worst Way to Move Oil, Except For All the Rest|last=Morris|first=David|date=August 28, 2016|website=Fortune|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230837/http://fortune.com/2016/08/28/pipelines-vs-trains-oil-transport/|url-status=live}} In his endorsement of Line 3, the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, supported this argument:{{Cite web|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-cabinet-trudeau-pipeline-decisions-1.3872828|title=Trudeau cabinet approves Trans Mountain, Line 3 pipelines, rejects Northern Gateway|last=Tasker|first=John|date=November 29, 2016|website=CBC|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619141339/https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-cabinet-trudeau-pipeline-decisions-1.3872828|url-status=live}}

{{blockquote|(Transport of oil by rail) is less economic, and more dangerous for communities, and is higher in terms of greenhouse gas emissions than modern pipelines would be.|Justin Trudeau, Canadian Prime Minister|source=CBC}}

Enbridge estimates that Line 3 would replace more than 10,000 rail cars transporting oil every day. The group Minnesotans for Line 3 says that by approving the pipeline, government regulators could ensure safer transport of millions of barrels of oil a year.{{Cite web|url=https://minnesotansforline3.com/2018/05/fact-check-friday-8-supply-demand-and-why-pipelines-like-line-3-are-so-important/|title=Fact Check Friday #8: Supply, demand and why pipelines like Line 3 are so important|date=May 11, 2018|website=Minnesotans for Line 3|access-date=June 27, 2018|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230940/https://minnesotansforline3.com/2018/05/fact-check-friday-8-supply-demand-and-why-pipelines-like-line-3-are-so-important/|url-status=live}} The Minnesota Department of Commerce, in their testimony against Line 3, questioned these projections, claiming they fail to consider a variety of possible future demands for oil.{{Cite web|date=September 11, 2017|title=Direct Testimony of Dr. Marie Fagan on Behalf of Minnesota Department of Commerce Division of Energy Resources|url=https://mn.gov/eera/web/project-file?legacyPath=/opt/documents/34079/Fagan_Direct_Testimony%2014-916.pdf#page=9|url-status=live|access-date=January 23, 2021|website=Minnesota Department of Commerce|page=5|format=PDF|archive-date=June 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230652/https://mn.gov/eera/web/project-file?legacyPath=%2Fopt%2Fdocuments%2F34079%2FFagan_Direct_Testimony%2014-916.pdf#page=9}}

• List of oil pipelines
• List of pipeline accidents in the United States in the 21st century

{{Reflist}}

{{Enbridge (corporation)}}

{{Canadian pipelines}}

Category:Enbridge pipelines

Category:Oil pipelines in North America

Category:Environmentalism in Canada

Category:Crude oil pipelines in the United States

Category:Proposed pipelines in the United States

Category:Oil pipelines in Minnesota

Category:Oil pipelines in North Dakota

Category:Oil pipelines in Wisconsin

Category:Oil pipelines in Canada

Category:Proposed pipelines in Canada

Category:Oil pipelines in Alberta

Category:Pipelines in Saskatchewan

Category:Environmental justice

Category:Environmental controversies

Category:Indigenous peoples of North America and the environment

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Category:Mississippi River

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Category:Environmental racism