While most of the nation rages on about the Keystone XL Pipeline, North Dakota is currently undertaking three major projects that will completely transform oil transportation in our state while adding programs to better build pipelines.
When completed (in 2016, ’17, and ’18) the Sandpiper, Dakota Access and Upland Pipeline will significantly reduce the current levels of oil transportation by rail to the safer choice of pipelines. And, there’s room to grow. Ultimately, the increased capacity will allow a third more oil to be exported to refineries. This will benefit our state both environmentally and financially, as we broaden the market for our products and lower the too-high transportation costs that lead to sale of our crude at a discount.
I applaud our officials for finding effective solutions such as the permitting and development of new pipelines, and I want to see credit given where credit is due. North Dakota has become a leading player on the world stage and in our growth; our state’s leaders have prudently answered challenges. When it comes to pipelines, our government and the oil industry have worked to add pipelines not only in quantity but also quality. Both have worked with western landowners to add three liaisons in the State Department of Agriculture who will work with landowners and pipeline builders to better install pipelines and restore the land after construction.
So thank you, Gov. Jack Dalrymple and legislators, who have put in place common-sense permitting and regulatory processes that allow our state to both grow and prosper economically and at the same time do it in a safer and more environmentally sound manner.
Charlie Adams, Lansford
