Prairie Public Broadcasting

Keystone ruling includes outside inspector BISMARCK, ND (Prairie Public) - One of the unique parts of the North Dakota Public Service Commission's route order for the Keystone Pipeline is the hiring of an outside inspector to monitor construction progress.

"That person is our eyes and our ears," said Commissioner Tony Clark. "We've instructed that there be frequent spot checks. And their (the inspector's) job is to know this order inside and out, and know that their job is to insure our intent is being carried out."

"Hopefully, we'll be able to find an engineering firm that would have that expertise," said Commissioner Kevin Cramer. "Our public utilities division staff has way too many thgings on its plate to be an inspector."

Cramer said he hopes that, from timje to time, Commission members and/or Commission staff will drop by the construction sites -- just to see how things are going.

The order contains a number of items regarding minimal harm to environmentally sensitive areas, and thicker pipe to prevent any leaks.

The Keystone pipeline will carry Alberta crude to Illinois and Oklahoma. © Copyright 2012, Prairie Public