Trump Issues Permit for Enbridge Line 5 Pipeline at St. Clair River
Environmental groups criticize decision as federal government renews authorization for controversial pipeline at Michigan-Canada border.
MARYSVILLE, MICHIGAN — President Donald Trump on Wednesday issued a presidential permit authorizing Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline crossing at the St. Clair River, renewing federal authorization for the decades-old infrastructure to support cross-border oil transport.
The permit replaces a 1991 authorization for the Michigan crossing near Marysville in St. Clair County and allows the Canadian company to continue operating and maintaining the existing pipeline facilities at the international boundary.
Permit Scope and Limitations
The authorization applies only to the St. Clair River border crossing and does not cover Enbridge’s separate proposal to build a tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac, which remains under review by state and federal regulators. Similar permits issued the same day by Trump also cover several Enbridge pipeline operations in North Dakota, part of efforts to streamline energy infrastructure between the U.S. and Canada.
According to the White House order, the permit authorizes the transport of crude oil and petroleum products across the border and requires the company to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The authorization also mandates that the pipeline be maintained in “good repair” and holds the company responsible for environmental damages tied to its operation.
Environmental Groups Voice Opposition
Environmental advocates criticized the decision as favoring corporate interests over consumer protection and environmental safety. Sean McBrearty, coordinator for the environmental advocacy group Oil & Water Don’t Mix, said the move benefits Enbridge without addressing consumer costs or environmental risks.
“Calling this ‘energy relief’ is a smokescreen. This permit won’t lower prices by a single cent. It’s a subsidy for Enbridge and paid for with continued Great Lakes risk,” McBrearty said.
Company Welcomes Authorization
Enbridge welcomed the permit authorization, noting the significance of its cross-border pipeline network. The company operates pipeline infrastructure that moves more than 3 million barrels per day across the U.S.-Canada border.
The Line 5 pipeline has been a subject of ongoing debate in Michigan, with environmental groups raising concerns about potential spills in the Great Lakes region while energy companies argue the infrastructure is essential for regional fuel supplies.
