Ann Arbor, Mich. — The Michigan Public Service Commission’s decision to approve relocating the dangerous and decrepit Line 5 oil pipeline to a tunnel does not change the fact that it is and will be a dire threat to the people, wildlife, and water of the Great Lakes.

“Whether it’s on or under the lakebed, Line 5 is the gravest threat facing the water, wildlife and way of life of people throughout Michigan and the Great Lakes. This decision is discouraging, and it does not reflect the reality that Line 5 is an unnecessary and reckless risk that Michigan, other Great Lakes states, and Canada can ill afford,” said Beth Wallace, Great Lakes freshwater campaigns manager for the National Wildlife Federation. “As an intervenor in this case, we will explore next steps to protect our water and rights.”