Shortly after the Iowa Utilities Board unanimously approved the Dakota Access Pipeline, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources issued its own permit, authorizing the pipeline to cross publicly-owned land in the state. The press release from DNR stated:
A permit from the DNR would allow Dakota Access to construct the pipe line across the Big Sioux River Complex Wildlife Management Area in Lyon County as well as borings for the pipeline under the Big Sioux River in Lyon County, the Des Moines River in Boone County and the Mississippi River in Lee County.
“We have thoroughly reviewed this application and do not find any long-term negative impact to the environment or natural resources,” said DNR Director Chuck Gipp.(…)
“Iowa has thousands of miles of pipeline underground including many that are under public property. This request and the subsequent permit we would be issuing is not precedent setting,” said Gipp.
In fact, if constructed, the pipeline across the Sioux River Complex Wildlife Management Area would parallel an existing natural gas line.
The DNR approval is a further step in enhancing the Midwest’s energy infrastructure and represents a $1.04 billion capital investment into Iowa’s economy.