© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Critic of straits pipeline on upcoming study, environmental concerns

Mackinac Bridge
WKAR File Photo
/
WKAR-MSU

Last year, the State of Michigan ordered a study of Enbridge Energy’s ‘Line 5,’ which carries up to 500,000 barrels of light crude and natural gas liquids daily under the Straits of Mackinac.  We talk with James Clift with the Michigan Environmental Council about the study and his concerns about Enbridge Energy's Line 5.

How safe are the oil and gas pipelines running beneath the Mackinac Straits?

For more than 60 years, hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil and natural gas liquids have travelled through the lines daily without incident.

But environmentalists have dismissed Enbridge Energy’s claims that its lines pose little if any threat to water and wildlife.

They cite a University of Michigan study released last week that shows an oil spill there could potentially threaten over 700 miles of shoreline.

Current State’s Mark Bashore talks about Enbridge Energy’s Line 5 with James Clift, the policy director of the Michigan Environmental Council.

Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.