BLM Greenlights Montana Pipeline Project
Author: Bureau of Land Management
Blm Greenlights Montana Pipeline Project
Bureau of Land Management
The Bureau of Land Management approved a natural gas pipeline in Montana that will strengthen America’s energy supply and create jobs in the local community. This project marks important progress in expanding energy infrastructure on public lands.
“Approving this project reflects our commitment to strengthening America’s energy independence,” said BLM Acting Director Bill Groffy. “By responsibly developing energy resources on public lands, we’re helping to secure a reliable, diverse energy future for the nation while supporting jobs and local economies.”
The BLM approved NorthWestern Energy’s proposal to construct the 74-mile Helena to Three Forks natural gas pipeline through an accelerated 14-day environmental review process, which is being used in response to the national energy emergency declared by President Donald J. Trump.
The pipeline route includes approximately nine miles of BLM-managed public lands and will follow an existing utility corridor to minimize new ground disturbance and ecological disruption. Construction of the 16-inch buried pipeline will occur in phases between spring 2026 and fall 2029. Preparatory activities, including increased survey traffic and engineering assessments, are expected to begin in 2025.
This approval aligns with BLM’s broader mission to support responsible energy development on public lands. Through strategic permitting, land stewardship, and environmental safeguards, BLM helps ensure a reliable domestic energy supply and reduces dependence on foreign resources. The BLM also plays a critical role in overseeing the extraction of essential minerals on federally managed lands, which are vital for sectors ranging from clean energy technologies to national defense.
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