The Wisconsin DNR has formally issued a notice of violation to Enbridge Energy Company, Inc.
Oct 14, 2026, 1:59 PM CT
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The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has formally issued a notice of violation (NOV) to Enbridge Energy Company, Inc., citing multiple alleged environmental infractions across Iron and Ashland counties. According to state officials, the violations span permit non-compliance during the ongoing Line 5 reroute construction project, as well as unpermitted construction activities tied to a bypass around the Saxon Line 5 spill site.
The formal document addresses incidents reported between March 30, 2026, and September 21, 2026, encompassing alleged breaches of state laws protecting water quality, wetlands, navigable waterways, air quality, storm water, and endangered resources. While an NOV serves as an initial administrative step outlining potential forfeitures, the DNR plans to review subsequent and ongoing operations for additional potential enforcement actions.
An enforcement conference between the DNR and Enbridge will be scheduled to review the legal and factual details of the alleged non-compliance. Depending on the outcome of this meeting, the state may pursue further legal measures, including civil citations or referral to the Wisconsin Department of Justice for prosecution and court-ordered remedies.
Officials clarified that this action remains distinct from Enbridge's obligations under the state Spills Law regarding the August 25 Line 5 release. The DNR continues to oversee site investigation and remediation efforts related to that incident, while staff noted no further interviews or details are available at this time.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
