Aquifer breach occurs along Enbridge Line 5 reroute near Marengo

An aquifer breach occurred last week along Enbridge’s Line 5 reroute project near the Marengo River in Ashland County.

Enbridge spokesperson Juli Kellner addressed the incident in a statement, saying the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has been notified.

“A flow of water was observed following the direct installation of pipe beneath the Marengo River. The observation was reported to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR); agency representatives have visited the site,” Kellner said.

Kellner said there has been no flooding and no reported environmental impacts to drinking water wells or waterbodies.

Enbridge is working with the DNR and other engineering and environmental specialists to determine next steps.

“The water flow continues to be monitored, contained, and managed,” Kellner said.

No estimate has been provided for how much water has been released. The DNR did not respond to a request for comment.

Earthjustice, which represents the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, criticized Enbridge following the breach. Attorney John Petoskey called on the DNR to take enforcement action.

“The Bad River Band said this would happen, and now it has,” Petoskey said. “Enbridge has gone rogue in north Wisconsin. Their lawless behavior speaks for itself. Wisconsin DNR ought to grow a spine and use their full enforcement authority to protect Wisconsin’s waters and hold Enbridge accountable.”