the adventure and beauty our environment could provide. By any measure it was an absolute dream trip. But the most moving experiences were the intimate conversations we had with locals who stood to be affected by a ruptured Line 5. Hearing about the relationships these folks had with the rivers, lakes and forests, and seeing what was at risk, brought tears to our eyes.
As we prepped for the final stretch of our journey, the weight of this campaign grew heavier than ever. While we had been traveling along the path of Line 5 for almost 500 miles, this final stretch across the Straits was the crux. Not only was it where the line posed the greatest risk, but also where we had the most opportunity for action. This is where a spill could tar 700 miles of coastline. And this is where, because of failing braces, the pipeline is now largely unsupported and subjected to some of the strongest fresh-water currents on the planet.
This is also the portion of the pipeline the governor can shut down.
When you really love a place, you do what you can to protect it. For us, it was to make a film, to tell the Line 5 story through a lens of beauty and adventure. Our hope is to remind those of you who also love these amazing waters, why you love them, and provide you with easy ways to support the decommissioning of Line 5.
If nothing else, we hope you find this film an inspiration to get out there and protect Mother Nature. For now, please leave a public comment in favor of decommissioning the Line 5 pipelines through the Straits of Mackinac. For more ways to plug into the campaign, visit the Oil and Water Don’t Mix site and connect with a non-profit near you.
Speak Up to Protect the Great Lakes
Urge Michigan state leaders to enforce the 1953 Easement and immediately shut down Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac to protect the Great Lakes from a catastrophic oil spill.
Editor’s note: Updated the action alert on 9/20/16 and again on 7/24/17. Also updated the age of the pipeline. Thank you for your continued support.