KDSN RADIO News
Critics of Summit’s Carbon Pipeline Rally in Ft. Dodge
The Iowa Utilities Board has begun its hearing on the Summit Carbon Solutions application to construct, operate, and maintain a liquid carbon pipeline through Iowa. Critics of the project held a rally in Fort Dodge just before the hearing started. The proposed pipeline goes through Tim Baughman's property in Crawford County."This decision will set precedent so we, the people need to speak out now," Baughman said. According to Baughman, people who own 900 parcels of land along the Iowa route have not signed contracts granting Summit access to their land. The company is asking regulators to grant it eminent domain authority to force unwilling property owners to sign easements. "Despite Summit's immense pressure and bullying and we stand here today united to show that together we can and must stop the Summit pipeline," Baughman said, then he led the crowd in a chant: "No eminent domain for private gain." Steve Kenkel (KINK-ell), chairman of the Shelby County Supervisors, says the people testifying today (Tuesday) are seeking respect for their land and their livelihoods. "Your dignity should never be compromised or disrespected for selfish gain, greed, or politics," Kenkel said. Summit has planned a two-thousand-mile pipeline through five states, to ship liquid carbon from ethanol plants to underground storage in North Dakota. The company says the project will provide a financial boost to the ethanol and agricultural sectors.
