Carbon pipeline developer, environmental group strike deal to benefit Nebraska landowners [Video]

The developer of a carbon pipeline has pledged $1.1 million to Nebraska communities and first responders along its route in a unique agreement that won backing from an environmental group that has opposed those projects.

Tallgrass Energy, which is converting 392 miles of natural gas pipeline to carry carbon dioxide, reached a “first-of-its-kind” agreement with Bold Alliance to support community initiatives and equip and train first responders.

The “community benefits agreement” also establishes rigorous protections for landowners throughout the Trailblazer Pipeline’s life, including returning easements to landowners who elected to have it abandoned or removed from their property.

Jane Kleeb, the founder of Bold Alliance, which was successful in opposing the Keystone XL pipeline, said the agreement “must set a standard” for future energy infrastructure developers and the landowners and communities they work with.

“Tallgrass is the first pipeline company we have encountered that has been willing to engage proactively, acknowledge the need for the landowner benefits that Bold fights to …