Enbridge Restores Line 5 Pipeline After Massive Wisconsin Spill

The Enbridge Inc. Line 5 pipeline returned to service on September 12, 2026, after a temporary bypass was constructed near Saxon, Wisconsin. The pipeline had been offline since August 25, when an unoccupied subcontractor's truck rolled into an excavation site and struck a pipe. The accident released approximately 1.3 million gallons of natural gas liquids, marking the largest pipeline spill in Wisconsin in over 50 years.

The resumption of service has triggered a conflict between the company and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Secretary Karen Hyun issued a letter on September 9 demanding a halt to the bypass work, alleging that Enbridge proceeded without necessary permits and disregarded environmental laws. Enbridge maintains that its construction was consistent with existing permits or pending amendments and was coordinated with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Tribal leaders from the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians have condemned the incident as a disaster, citing damage to air, water, and land quality. While Enbridge reports that monitoring of wildlife, surface water, and residential wells shows no contamination, state officials and tribal leaders continue to criticize the company's transparency and environmental record.