Lobos CO2 Pipeline – Health Impact Assessment
In October 2013, the energy corporation Kinder-Morgan proposed to build a 214-mile pipeline to bring carbon dioxide (CO2) mined in Arizona through New Mexico for use in enhanced oil recovery operations (commonly known as fracking) in Texas. Many residents of Torrance County, New Mexico have expressed concern about the potential effects of this project, known as the Lobos CO2 Pipeline. Concerns include the conversion of farming, ranching or residential land for industrial use; long- and short-term economic impacts to individuals and the county; impacts to local history and culture; effects to water quality and quantity; and other health and safety concerns. The central goal of the Health Impact Assessment (HIA) being conducted is to provide information about the potential effects of the proposed pipeline on the health and equity of Torrance County residents. It is intended to inform residents and decision makers, such as the Bureau of Land Management that is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the proposed pipeline. The HIA is expected to be complete in time to comment on the EIS report. Human Impact Partners is leading the HIA in collaboration with the Partnership for a Healthy Torrance Community, a coalition of community members and the New Mexico Department of Health.
- Video link featured on ABC – KOAT 7 newscast- http://www.koat.com/news/