Creation Covenant Alliance

Bad River: A Tribal Fight Against Pipeline Expansion Emphasizes Long-Term Environmental Planning

A Native American tribe in Wisconsin battles to remove an aging oil pipeline from their land, protecting sacred wetlands.
Mary Mazzio (left) and Joe Grosso filming on location at the Bad River Reservation. Credit: Richard Schultz/Courtesy of 50 Eggs Films

A small Native American reservation in northern Wisconsin hosts the “Everglades of the North,” a vast wetland on Lake Superior’s shores, one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes. The Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians has long worked to protect their homeland and wild rice beds vital to their culture and food supply, predating the reservation’s 1854 establishment.

“Bad River” focuses on the tribe’s recent legal battle to remove an aging crude oil pipeline from their reservation. The documentary, awarded Best Documentary at the Environmental Media Association Awards in Los Angeles, premieres on Peacock on Nov. 1.

Easements for the 71-year-old Enbridge pipeline on tribal land expired in 2013. The Canadian company has been trespassing on tribal land, with erosion along the route posing a “real and unreasonable risk” of rupture, as per a federal court ruling in 2023.

Enbridge has downplayed spill concerns, stating safety “is the very foundation of our business.” The company seeks state and federal approval to reroute the line around the reservation.

Inside Climate News spoke with Mary Mazzio, the film’s producer, writer, and director, to learn more about the film, the tribe, and the lessons from the Bad River Band’s environmental protection efforts. The interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

MARY MAZZIO: I met Mike Wiggins, the former chairman, who discussed the tribe’s battle against a Canadian pipeline operator over a pipeline at imminent risk of rupture, with expired easements. This journey began with “canoe diplomacy,” an experience that taught me about the tribe’s resilience and fortitude.

What started as a pipeline movie evolved into a historical examination of the Bad River people’s fight for sovereignty. Their prolonged struggle for environmental protection highlights their importance in safeguarding resources like Lake Superior.

At an event, Mike Wiggins emphasized it’s their patriotic duty to protect resources needed by all Americans amid increasing extreme weather. This community shoulders the burden for the nation.

The pipeline issue led the Bad River Band to file a federal lawsuit against the Canadian operator for expired rights. The court ruled in their favor, mandating the operator’s exit by 2026. However, the pipeline operator has appealed, waiting for a decision from the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago.

The proposed reroute would place the pipeline in a worse location within the Bad River watershed, including 139 blasting sites over water. Despite offers of up to $80 million to settle, the Band remains steadfast in their long-term values.

On the health implications, concerns arise over violence against Native women during construction and environmental impacts from potential spills. The community relies on their ecosystem for a healthful diet amid threats from industrial activity.

Ultimately, the Bad River Band’s story underscores the need for collective environmental responsibility, inspiring others to protect vital resources like Lake Superior.

 

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024