ST. IGNACE, MI (AP)-- Michigan officials have approved plans by pipeline company Enbridge to install additional supports for its twin oil pipelines in the waterway where Lakes Michigan and Huron meet.
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality says it issued a permit Monday for Enbridge to install four additional supports beneath sections of the Straits of Mackinac pipelines known as Line 5.
An easement granted in the 1950s requires that the pipelines have some type of support no more than 75 feet apart. Enbridge informed the DEQ and other agencies this summer that some spots exceed the limit because of erosion beneath the pipes.
The company wanted to install anchors in up to 22 locations. Michigan deferred a permitting decision on additional supports.
