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Clean Water Action: MPCA's Line 3 Denial Shows the Importance of Section 401 of the Clean Water Act
Minneapolis -- Today the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency denied the Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality permit for Enbridge’s Line 3 pipeline. The MPCA stated that it needed more information to determine if the 340-mile long pipeline would be detrimental to water quality in the state, as a result of possible oil spills. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act is a critical tool states and tribes use to protect local waters. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed weakening this provision, which would make it harder for Minnesota and other states to safeguard water
Reflections from my Legislative Program Internship
As the Minnesota Legislative Program Intern for Clean Water Action, I delved into the democratic process more than I ever had before. Prior to this, of course I voted. I read the news but I had not realized how much my knowledge of state affairs was lacking. My presence at the capitol covering committee meetings and hearings opened a window that I hadn’t known existed—one that showed me the public’s role in government.
Initially, taking notes at these meetings seemed like a daunting task. With my laptop balanced on my knees I tapped furiously against the keys, trying to transcribe complex and
PFC Contamination in Minnesota
Clean Water Action supported the passage of new drinking water guidance levels for PFCs and the establishment of the state’s biomonitoring program. We advocated for strong landfill clean up plans and conducted public education and outreach on this ever evolving situation.