Concerns raised over Great Lakes risk of oil spill

Concerns have been raised that the two oil pipelines that run underneath the waterway that links Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, US are at risk of experiencing ruptures. Congress and some environmental groups have spoken about the possibility of the pipelines rupturing in the near future, which would result in widespread pollution of the Great Lakes.

Both of the pipelines are owned by Enbridge Energy Partners and run across the Straits of Mackinac, northern Michigan. They form a section of the pipeline that carries crude oil from North Dakota to a number of Upper Midwestern states.

While no leak has been recorded from the two pipes, they were originally laid in 1953, which has prompted concerns that aspects of the line may be reaching the end of their life. This could result in pipeline ruptures that may see the release of thousands of barrels of oil in this popular resort area. However, Enbridge has stressed that the pipelines are safe.

It is feared that if the pipelines rupture, a similar disaster to a 2010 leak will be experienced. One of Enbridge's pipelines ruptured four years ago, causing more than 844,000 gallons of crude oil to spill into south-western Michigan's Kalamazoo River and a tributary creek. 

A similar rupture on the pipelines beneath the Straits of Mackinac would cause severe damage. Not only is the area a popular resort, important to tourism levels, it would also represent a challenge to clean up. The waterway has a very swift current and is incredibly deep, as well as being covered in thick ice for months at a time.

Drinking water is also drawn from the waterway in several areas and it is also a source of fish for local businesses. The environmental and economic impact would be huge if a rupture of either pipeline was to happen. 

In a bid to assuage fears, Enbridge has now entered into an agreement with Michigan Technological University. This agreement will see sonar inspections conducted of the pipelines to assess their condition and the risk of future ruptures.