The Michigan Court of Appeals recently heard arguments from attorneys representing Native American tribes and environmental organizations, challenging a 2023 permit issued by the Michigan Public Service Commission MPSC for Enbridge’s Line 5 tunnel project.
This permit is one of three required for Enbridge to proceed with its controversial proposal.
Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline spans 645 miles, running from Northwest Wisconsin through Michigan and into Ontario, Canada.
It carries 540,000 barrels of light crude oil, synthetic crude, and natural gas liquids daily through the Straits of Mackinac, which connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
The pipeline has faced strong opposition from environmental groups, tribal nations, and state officials, who express concern about the risk of a rupture.
Such an event could have catastrophic consequences for the Great Lakes ecosystem, which provides drinking water and is critical to the region’s economy and wildlife.
The case continues to draw attention due to its potential environmental and cultural impacts.