Landowners express concerns about proposed CO2 pipeline

A handful of Holt County residents shared concerns about a proposed CO2 pipeline with supervisors during Holt County's Dec. 30 meeting.

Diana Steskal, of Atkinson, said landowners are asking supervisors to research pipelines and Summit Carbon Solutions before making any decisions.

"We'd like the supervisors to ask the Summit company for an open public meeting, to inform the citizens about the pipeline and let the citizens ask questions," Steskal said.

Construction practices, land reclamation, abandonment, proposed route and eminent domain use were suggested topics for consideration.

Steskal said from personal research she has conducted, the life of the pipe, in Iowa, is expected to be 20 to 25 years.

"Why is there a perpetual easement?" she asked.

Landowners would like access to safety data sheets, as required by the Hazard Communcation Standard of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

The pounds per square inch of the pipeline is three times the rate of natural gas, according to Steskal.

"If there is a leak or an explosion, the gas can emerge odorless and, sometimes, colorless, that can suffocate all living beings," Steskal said.

Nebraska currently does not have state statutes to regulate carbon pipelines.

"These companies do not have to get a permit from the Nebraska Public Service Commission, so where does the liability and the safety for the citizens of Holt County lie? Does it lie with Summit Carbon Company or does it lie with county boards?" Steskal asked. "Is the CO2 carbon company a good neighbor for Holt County landowners?"

She suggested a moratorium be placed on any carbon or oil pipeline, considered in Holt County, until the planning and zoning board and supervisors can research and establish rules for CO2 pipelines.

Dr. Robert Randall, of Atkinson, said he hopes supervisors will not make a decision about the pipeline without hearing from Holt County citizens, "whether we're for or opposed."

Chairman Bill Tielke said for most individuals at the meeting, it's the first time hearing about the pipeline.

"It's a long process. It isn't something any decisions will be made today," Tielke said.

Tom Genung, a BOLD Nebraska representative, told supervisors after 12 years of experiencing the Keystone XL pipeline, the hope is the board represents county citizens.

"What regulations exist with the pipeline company? Do they have setbacks already in place? Does that coincide with the needs of our folks here in Holt County?" Genung asked.

He stressed the importance of knowing and understanding the company's stance on use of eminent domain.

"Those are some of the things the board needs to continue to ask. Please represent the people rather than pipeline companies," Genung said. "You get to set the course for this kind of deal."