February 27, 2004

The Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced the successful completion of the Lakeside Refinery Pipeline Decommissioning Project, eliminating the threat of releases of hazardous materials into the surrounding communities.

The 17 mile long crude oil pipeline near Kalamazoo operated for nearly 15 years, during which time there were numerous accidental releases to the environment. Nearly 100,000 gallons of oil remained inside the pipeline when it was abandoned in the early 1990s, and in recent years, increased development in the areas near the pipeline increased the likelihood of a hazardous encounter with it.

“The fact that new development was bringing families very close to the pipeline made it clear that it posed a serious risk to these communities,” said Director Chester. “The DEQ took the initiative to properly decommission this pipeline, eliminating the threat of a potentially catastrophic release of crude oil, and fulfilling our commitment to keeping Michigan’s environment healthy and strong.”

The pipeline was decommissioned by vacuum draining the crude oil, cleaning and plugging the interior of the pipe, and physically removing portions of it. The project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget following two years of research and planning, and two years of project management and field work.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq

Revised February 27, 2004 by Pat Watson