LANSING – Today the National Wildlife Federation issued a statement of support for the Bay Mills Indian Community in its formal challenge to a Line 5 tunnel permit issued to Enbridge Energy.

The challenge to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (ELGE) comes two months after the department approved a permit for the Line 5 tunnel. Enbridge must still obtain permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the Michigan Public Service Commission before considering any construction for the tunnel proposal. Enbridge is actively trying to avoid environmental impact studies, as well as a review of alternatives, in these permit applications as well. 

“The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy rubber-stamped Enbridge’s Line 5 tunnel permit — avoiding critical review and failing to satisfy its basic public trust responsibility to protect the Great Lakes for the benefit of the people of Michigan,” said Beth Wallace, Great Lakes Campaigns Manager for the National Wildlife Federation. “The challenge brought forward by the Bay Mills Indian Community is substantial and significant and the National Wildlife Federation strongly supports this effort. The Line 5 tunnel is not a safe alternative. We must preserve our Great Lakes and tribal treaty rights by removing this dangerous pipeline from beneath the Straits of Mackinac.”