The state is ordering Enbridge Energy to take swift action to fix portions of the Line Five energy pipeline that runs beneath the Straits of Mackinac.
Enbridge reported to the state that small portions of enamel coating were accidentally removed.
Melody Kindraka of the state Department of Environmental Quality says there’s no immediate threat to the Great Lakes, but it’s concerning that the problem was the result of human error.
“At this time, we are not aware of any potential problems, but we will certainly be working with Enbridge to make sure everything is addressed.”
“We want to make sure that Enbridge is taking every possible precaution, and that they have all the appropriation risk mitigations in place to make sure the line is safe.”
“The coating is meant to protect the line from corrosion and other things that may be happening at the bottom of the lake. At this time, we are not aware of any risk to the Great Lakes, but, certainty, we are extremely concerned.”
The enamel was worn off in two places on the line. The DEQ says the problem appears to have been caused by human error.