Enbridge has broken the artesian layer of an confining aquifer, resulting in an unauthorized groundwater appropriation during the construction of Line 3 replacement project near Enbridge's Clearbrook Terminal, DNR said in a statement https: www.dnr.com DNR's order also requires Enbridge to implement a restoration plan to stop the additional groundwater flow within 30 days and conduct unauthorized groundwater and site monitoring.
The regulator ordered Enbridge to place $2.75 million in escrow for mitigation of any damage to the calcareous fen wetlands.
The DNR referred the matter to the Clearwater County Attorney for criminal prosecution. If the company violates the restoration order, it would be subject to additional misdemeanor charges under state law, DNR added.
In response, Enbridge said in a statement that it would continue to work closely with the agency on the resolution of the matter.
Since June Enbridge has worked with the DNR to provide the required site information and approve a corrective action plan which is currently being implemented. Enbridge is close to completing its Line 3 replacement project, which will increase the capacity of the pipeline carrying oil sands crude to Midwest refineries.
Earlier this month, Enbridge send a note to shippers saying it expects to offer capacity on the pipeline by October for 620,000 barrels per day and it is expected to reach full capacity of 760,000 bpd by the end of this year.
Environmental groups oppose the project that has faced years of legal delays and regulatory challenges.