Interior Dept. says Keystone XL could harm parks, wildlife

The Interior Department said the Keystone XL oil sands pipeline could have a negative impact on natural resources, wildlife and national parks. Interior said Keystone builder TransCanada Corp. must better assess the Canada-to-Texas pipeline’s impact on noise and lighting. “Scientific studies demonstrate that light pollution and noise can adversely affect natural and cultural resources, wildlife, and visitor experiences,” Willie R. Taylor, director of Interior’s office of environmental policy, said in a comment posted this week on the State Department’s website. The April 29 comment was one of the 1.2 million Foggy Bottom is reviewing regarding its Keystone draft environmental impact statement. The department is reviewing the pipeline because TransCanada needs a cross-border permit to finish the northern leg.
Interior’s comment focused on the impact Keystone would have on national parks and public lands the department oversees...more