NFU’s Johnson says current route could damage freshwater resources

WASHINGTON (Oct. 4, 2011) – National Farmers Union (NFU) submitted comments today on the proposed Keystone XL pipeline project, urging the Department of State (DOS) to deny issuance of a Presidential Permit.

“NFU policy opposes any infrastructure or resource development that jeopardizes the health, safety and quality of the Ogallala and other freshwater aquifer resources,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “NFU continues to have serious concerns regarding the proposed Keystone XL pipeline and the agency-preferred route as outlined in the FEIS.”

In the letter, NFU expressed concerns over the environmental impact of the proposed pipeline route.

“Pursuit of the agency-preferred route places in serious jeopardy the groundwater resources in the Ogallala aquifer and related natural resources upon which our nation and our family farmers, ranchers and rural residents depend,” said Johnson.