Uncertainty Lingers Over Dakota Access Pipeline's Environmental Fate

Federal officials have released a draft environmental review of the Dakota Access oil pipeline, but have not made a recommendation on the future of the line's controversial river crossing in North Dakota. The review, which comes three years after a federal judge ordered it, is crucial for the reissuance of the permit. The draft presents five options, including denying the easement, removing a segment, or rerouting the pipeline. Public input and environmental analysis will be considered before a final decision is made. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, concerned about water contamination, withdrew as a cooperating agency in the review.