Former worker says lake at risk of oil leak, pipeline contractor defends workmanship

NEW TOWN, N.D. — A former crew member on an oil pipeline under construction in North Dakota claims that pipe installed under Lake Sakakawea was not properly inspected and he fears the lake could be at risk.

But the owner of the pipeline contracting company stands by the work and says the claims are false accusations made by workers who were fired.

Federal pipeline regulators are investigating the allegations, which were also brought to the North Dakota Public Service Commission's attention this week.

The 70-mile Sacagawea Pipeline will carry oil beneath Lake Sakakawea for 7,000 feet, crossing the lake south of New Town. The project required underground boring for 11,000 feet — more than two miles — according to information presented to the PSC.

Read more: http://www.inforum.com/news/4088841-former-worker-says-lake-risk-oil-leak-pipeline-contractor-defends-workmanship