NORTHEAST, PA — In a reversal of a decision made in July 2012, the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) has determined that it will review two pipelines that go through Wayne and Pike counties. The review will be done “after the fact,” as the pipeline shave already been completed.

The Delaware Riverkeeper Network (DNR) had been urging the DRBC to take that action because the rules that govern the DRBC require it, and DNR would like the agency to compel the pipeline owners to take additional restoration action along the path of the lines.

Initially DRBC determined that it would not review the lines because gas lines are specifically exempted from DRBC oversight with a few exceptions. One of those exceptions is for gas lines that run though public recreation areas, and both lines traverse the Delaware State Forest, which is part of the DRBC’s comprehensive plan.

Maya van Rossum, Delaware Riverkeeper, wants the DRBC to review all of the new pipeline projects that are constructed within the Delaware River Basin; four pipeline projects have been built in the basin since 2011, seven more are planned, and an additional six are being considered.