Statement | Washington, DC | December 05, 2016

National Trust Applauds Decision Not to Grant Dakota Access Pipeline Easement to Protect Tribal Heritage

Statement by Stephanie K. Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation

Yesterday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not approve an easement necessary to permit the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline under Lake Oahe in North Dakota in order to conduct further studies. The following is a statement from Stephanie K. Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation:

“Sacred sites such as the tribal lands of the Standing Rock Sioux are a critical part of our nation’s cultural heritage, and they must be protected according to the longstanding provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act. We commend the Army Corps of Engineers for taking this important step and for committing to a process of working with the tribal community. Going forward, any additional construction of the proposed Dakota pipeline should work to avoid and minimize harm to these irreplaceable sacred sites and burial grounds.”

To read the National Trust’s October 4, 2016, letter to the Army Corps of Engineers about the need to ensure that permitting for the Dakota Access Pipeline complies with the National Historic Preservation Act, click here.

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About the National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities maintain and enhance the power of historic places. Chartered by Congress in 1949 and supported by partners, friends, and champions nationwide, we help preserve the places and stories that make communities unique. Through the stewardship and revitalization of historic sites, we help communities foster economic growth, create healthier environments, and build a stronger, shared sense of civic duty and belonging.
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