Dozens speak out at LNG Pipeline public hearing

Medford, Ore.– Close to 200 people showed up to a public hearing with the Department of State Lands. Most of them are passionately saying no to the Liquefied Natural Gas Pipeline

Before the public hearing, many rallied outside The Rogue Regency saying they’re united as one.

“This is unacceptable here,” said Gregg Marchese.

Eric Metz is a manager overseeing two permits dealing with dredging and effects to wetlands.

The first permit is for a main terminal. The other for the actual pipeline itself which would stretch 230 miles from Coos Bay to Malin.

It would also cross 400 different waterways including tributaries to the Rogue River.

Marchese from Ashland said the pipeline would be detrimental to the beauty in Southern Oregon, “We’re educated, were concerned, we care about or local economy and the future of our world.”

Metz said it could take months to years before the pipeline would be built. But his decision will be made by February 8th.

You can still turn in a public comment from by this Friday. Metz also said before any construction can begin other organizations like the Army Corps of Engineers will have the final say.