Oil and water: The Line 3 debate

Enbridge's new, larger Line 3 pipeline, which carries crude oil across northern Minnesota, was completed in 2021 and began operating in October. But the debate over the project's impact on climate, water and tribal treaty rights continues.

Enbridge appeals to vacate an order that would shut down its pipeline
The Tribe fears the aging pipeline could rupture. Enbridge’s attorney told a three-judge federal appellate panel Thursday that Conley lacked authority to issue such an order. Bad River’s attorney is calling for an immediate shutdown to protect the environment.
Judge dismisses pipeline protest charges against 3 Native women
In a forceful opinion, District Court Judge Leslie Metzen wrote that as respected members of Anishinaabe tribes, Winona LaDuke, Tania Aubid and Dawn Goodwin were exercising their free speech rights and spiritual beliefs.
DNR confirms new Line 3 aquifer breach in northern Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed it’s investigating the rupture near Moose Lake, south of Hill City in Aitkin County in an area with complex wetlands and peat bogs. It’s the fourth confirmed breach of a groundwater aquifer along the Line 3 corridor.
Enbridge faces criminal charge, more fines over Line 3 construction
The Canadian company has agreed to pay more than $11 million in penalties, environmental projects and financial assurances related to aquifer breaches and water quality violations.
Line 3 aquifer breach is leaking more groundwater
The site near LaSalle Creek in Hubbard County is one of three places where crews installing the Enbridge-owned pipeline last year caused uncontrolled flows of groundwater.
Defendants seek dismissal of Line 3 protest charges
Shanai Matteson’s case in Aitkin County was one of hundreds still pending more than a year after protest actions over the Line 3 pipeline project across northern Minnesota.
Bill would toughen penalties for water violators
The measure is a response to aquifer breaches during construction of the Line 3 oil pipeline last year, which leaked millions of gallons of groundwater.
Minn. lawmaker demands data on Line 3 frac-outs
Enbridge says the pipeline’s permits did not require that it maintain or report the data on drilling fluid that state Sen. John Marty is requesting.
A leader in the fight against oil pipelines reflects on lessons learned
The contested Line 3 replacement pipeline, which runs through northern Minnesota, was completed in 2021 despite the efforts of many to stop it. Indigenous attorney Tara Houska, a leader of those efforts, reflected on her activism with host Cathy Wurzer.