Rover pipeline delivers natural gas, protects nature

As we look at the link between industrial development and environmental protection, cynics might say these two concepts are incompatible.

The good news is, they are compatible, and there’s no better example than the proposed Rover natural gas pipeline. This 800-mile pipeline is state of the art infrastructure in terms of its efficiency in delivering much needed natural gas to Michigan and in the protection it provides for the environment.

The membership of the Michigan Chapter of the Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA) has followed the Rover project carefully to monitor any potential threat to soil and water. We stand with landowners across Southern Michigan in their commitment to see that all land along the pipeline route is returned to its original state, or better.

The most effective opportunity to protect land during development comes before the first cubic foot of soil is removed. It’s much easier and more effective to prevent environmental damage through careful advance planning.

That’s a reality that appears to be well understood by the Rover builders, Energy Transfer Partners (ETP). The design of the pipeline emphasizes environmental protection and safety, even beyond what federal regulations require.

Eighty percent of the pipeline goes through agricultural property, and those sections will be buried in four feet of soil, as opposed to a minimum of three feet elsewhere.

Best of all, there is no trade-off between economic growth an environmental protection. If Rover is any indication, it looks like these two are compatible.

Mike Cook

ex director MLICA

Westphalia