Hearings Discuss Keystone XL Pipeline

PIERRE, SD - Transcanada, a $7 billion dollar project that would cut through western South Dakota, is trying to get a federal permit to build the Keystone XL pipeline that would bring oil from northern Alberta to Gulf Coast refineries.

But, before the U.S. State Department grants the permit they are holding public hearings along the proposed route, including right here in South Dakota.

Transcanada has already built one pipeline through South Dakota.

The Keystone one came online more than a year ago in the eastern part of the state. But, just because the company has built one pipeline doesn't mean there's not interest in this one.

More than 150 people showed up Thursday to speak out for and against the project.

The pipeline leaking is a major concern of pipeline opponents here in South Dakota and beyond.

In Nebraska, there are worries a leak would poison the Oglalla aquifer, which supplies water to most of the state.

KELOLAND's Ben Dunsmoor spent the day in Pierre. Click on the video player to hear what he witnessed. Tune into KELOLAND News at 10 for the story.