Bridger Pipeline Expansion Receives Presidential Approval
President Trump has signed a cross-border approval for the Bridger Pipeline Expansion, a major 650-mile oil pipeline project that will transport Canadian crude oil into Montana and Wyoming.
"Slightly different from the last administration. They wouldn't sign a pipeline deal. And we have pipelines going up."
— President Donald Trump
Project Overview
The proposed pipeline would carry up to 550,000 barrels of oil per day, linking with another pipeline in Wyoming. Developed by Bridger Pipeline LLC—a subsidiary of True Companies—the project would see construction begin in fall 2027, with completion expected by late 2028 or early 2029.
At peak volume, the pipeline would carry two-thirds as much oil as the Keystone XL pipeline, which was canceled by President Biden in 2021.
Routing and Environmental Considerations
The pipeline route has been designed to avoid crossing Native American reservations, and over 70% of the pipeline would be built within existing pipeline corridors, minimizing new ground disturbance.
Despite the presidential approval, the project still requires additional state and federal environmental approvals before construction can proceed.
Safety and Risk Concerns
Bridger Pipeline has faced previous incidents, including:
- A 2015 Yellowstone River spill
- A 2016 North Dakota spill
- A resulting $12.5 million civil penalty
In response, the company plans to use AI-driven leak detection technology and bury pipes deeper under major rivers to reduce spill risk.
A Bridger spokesperson, Bill Salvin, stated: "The pipeline is designed with integrity and safety in mind; emergency response plans exist."
"The biggest concern we see right now is the concern inherent in all pipeline projects which is the risk of spills. Pipelines rupture and leak."
— Jenny Harbine, Earthjustice attorney
Opposition
Environmental groups, including the Montana Environmental Information Center and WildEarth Guardians, have voiced opposition to the project, citing ongoing concerns about the environmental risks associated with oil pipelines.