Pipeline Plan Could Mean Fewer Stream Protections, Critics Say

Oil and gas developers may be able to build more pipelines and face fewer needs to protect streams and wetlands if the Army Corps of Engineers moves forward with a plan to change some Clean Water Act permits, according to environmental consultants.

Under the Aug. 3 proposal, companies would no longer be required to notify the Corps if the pipelines they lay require clearing of forested wetlands, or building access roads longer than 500 feet with fill material dredged from streams or wetlands or with impervious materials.

And pipeline companies also wouldn’t be required to notify the Corps if the ...