Environmental groups are attacking an agreement between Michigan and Canadian pipeline company Enbridge Inc. that sets a timeline for determining the future of twin oil pipelines beneath the waterway where Lakes Huron and Michigan converge.
Activists say the only foolproof way to safeguard the lakes is to decommission Enbridge's Line 5, which includes a 5-mile segment in the Straits of Mackinac. They're unhappy that the deal calls for Enbridge to evaluate ways to replace the lines with another that would run through an underwater tunnel or trench.
Lisa Wozniak, of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, says the state is putting too much trust in Enbridge.
The agreement is also drawing reaction from candidates for Michigan governor.
Democrats Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed say it includes temporary half-measures that leave the lakes vulnerable.
Republicans Bill Schuette and Jim Hines say the plan is a good first step.