BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - Two groups representing hundreds of landowners in western North Dakota are split over new legislation aimed at preventing spills and other problems related to the 20,000 miles of pipelines in the state.
The Northwest Land Owners Association is optimistic about the measures passed this week by the Legislature. The more environmentally minded Dakota Resource Council believes lawmakers have not gone far enough.
The groups share much of the same membership. But the Northwest Land Owners Association is more confident that North Dakota lawmakers are adequately addressing pipeline issues.
Northwest Land Owners Association President Troy Coons says he's optimistic about a new pilot program unveiled Wednesday that's intended to help resolve complaints from farmers, ranchers and landowners about pipeline placement and land restoration.