BEND, Ore. - The company behind a major natural gas pipeline to be built in Oregon says it will contribute a total of $22 million to two environmental conservation funds. In return, the two groups say they'll drop their opposition to the project.
The Ruby Pipeline will span 680 miles between Opal, Wyo., and Malin, Ore., and will cost $3 billion. But environmental groups say the hidden cost will be to the sagebrush habitat.
Under the agreement, El Paso Corp., Ruby's parent company, will pay $15 million into a new non-profit fund set up by the Western Watersheds Project.
Another $7 million will go into a fund set up by Bend-based Oregon Natural Desert Association.
Jon Marvel, executive director of Western Watersheds Project, said both funds will be used to purchase grazing permits from ranchers willing to sell. Marvel says the land stands to benefit.
Jon Marvel said, "In addition, Ruby Pipeline benefits by not having a potential litigant challenging its pipeline."
El Paso is waiting for final federal approval. A spokesman for the company says construction could get underway within days.
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