MAIN Coalition Statement on Dakota Access Pipeline- Judge Boasberg lifts TRO

We are pleased that Judge Boasberg lifted the Temporary Restraining Order west of Lake Oahe allowing construction on the Dakota Access Pipeline to continue in that area.  We appreciate the Judge’s recognition that the United States has a rigorous and robust regulatory process in place and we need to honor it.

In his thoughtful and thorough opinion last week, Judge Boasberg confirmed that the Army Corps of Engineers did their jobs expertly and in accordance with the law. 

The Corps followed the regulatory process by ensuring that the project met requirements including those under the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

With regards to the Administration’s continued hold on the Dakota Access Pipeline, the MAIN Coalition believes that should the Administration base its decision on the facts, science, engineering, and the rule of law the project will be allowed to move forward.  However, if the decision is politically motivated and the pipeline is forced to be rerouted or canceled, it would send a chilling message to companies looking to invest in any American infrastructure project.