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Group protests sequestration-fueled loss of EPA funding

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - A call for action by an environmental group, urging congress to minimize the cuts that may soon hit the Environmental Protection Agency.

Last week, the EPA ordered Enbridge to do additional dredging in sections of the river above the Ceresco Dam near Battle Creek.

The cleanup is still needed after a 30 inch crude oil pipeline owned by Enbridge ruptured in the summer of 2010 near Marshall and traveled more than 30 miles downstream until it was contained.

Protesters said Wednesday, if the sequestration takes full effect next month, Michigan stands to lose nearly $6 million in environmental funding and $50 million in the great lakes area alone.

Protesters stood in front of the Kalamazoo River in Battle Creek holding signs, explaining why they think the area is at a crucial point to making sure the EPA keeps a close eye on Enbridge, and their efforts to keep the ecosystem clean for generations to come.

"This is the largest in US history and there is no health study," said John Bolenbaugh, Protester

"The oil spill control and counter measure is going to lose funding its gunna really .. So something like this doesn't happen again," said Shawn Dhanak, Action of Michigan Organizer.
  
We also reached out to Enbridge to respond. A spokesperson tells Newschannel 3:

"We promised the people of Kalamazoo and Battle Creek that we would make the Kalamazoo River cleaner than before the spill, and we remain firm in our commitment. We will have a long-term presence in the area and will continue to work in the best interests of the affected communities and river environment."