Following news of further damage to Enbridge Line 5 under the Straits of Mackinac, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is calling on the head of the oil company to turn over all relevant information about the incident as she questions the integrity of the pipeline.
The governor has sent a letter today to Al Monaco, CEO of Enbridge, following word of the discovery this week of further damage to the Line 5 pipeline running through the waters of the Straits.
Whitmer says, “The information I have received about this incident leaves many unanswered questions as to the cause of this damage, the catastrophe that may have been narrowly avoided, and the threats that may remain as a result of the damaged infrastructure.” She goes on to say, “That’s why I am requesting Enbridge turn over to the State of Michigan all relevant information about this most recent damage and provide affirmative evidence that establishes the integrity of the pipeline.”
On Thursday, Enbridge alerted the State of Michigan an anchor support on one of the dual pipelines running along the bottomlands of the Straits of Mackinac had incurred significant damage. That support lies approximately 150 feet from a section of the pipeline where damage to the pipeline coating was discovered on or around May 26th, 2020.
After discovering the damaged anchor support, Enbridge shut down the pipeline and is gathering more information through divers, the use of a remotely operated vehicle, and other means. The pipeline remains shut down as Enbridge continues to gather more information.
The governor says in her letter, “One close call with Line 5 is one too many, which is why I am calling on Enbridge to proceed with the utmost caution and care.”
She concludes, “As Governor of the Great Lakes State I carry an immense burden to protect this priceless treasure that defines the contours of our state and our way of life,” ending, “I anticipate and expect your full cooperation.”
To view the governor’s full letter, click the link below:
