Pipeline Dreams in North Dakota Spark Eco-Comment Frenzy
Published Date: 5/8/2026
Notice
Summary
WBI Energy plans to build the Bakken East Pipeline across several North Dakota counties, and the government wants your thoughts on how it might affect the environment. They’re asking for public comments by June 4, 2026, to help decide if the project should move forward. This is your chance to speak up about possible changes, impacts, and ways to protect nature before any big money or construction starts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Landowners: Easement Negotiation and Eminent Domain
If you are a landowner along the planned route, WBI Energy may contact you to negotiate an easement to construct, operate, and maintain the pipeline. You are not required to agree, but if the Commission approves the project the Natural Gas Act conveys the right of eminent domain to the company and it could initiate condemnation proceedings in court; compensation would be determined by a judge according to state law.
Construction Footprint: 8,500 Acres Disturbed
WBI Energy's planned project would install about 353.1 miles of new pipeline and is expected to disturb about 8,500 acres during construction, with about 2,700 acres maintained for permanent operation afterward. This includes new compressor stations, receipt/delivery stations, and other aboveground facilities across listed North Dakota counties.
Public Scoping: Comment Deadline June 4, 2026
The Commission is asking for public comments on environmental issues to be received by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on June 4, 2026, and is holding public scoping sessions on May 19, May 20, May 21, June 2, and June 4, 2026 (each 5:00–7:00 p.m. Central Time). Oral comments at scoping sessions will be recorded and may be limited to 5 minutes per speaker; comments may also be submitted electronically via FERC's eComment or eFiling systems.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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