 Enbridge submitted a rebuttal testimony today before the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission in support of the Line 3 Replacement Project. Enbridge officials say they believe the testimony clearly and unequivocally demonstrates that Line 3 is critical energy infrastructure required to meet the energy needs of Minnesota and the Midwest in the years ahead. The rebuttal focused on a number of key topics including the effects of shutting down Line 3 crude oil production forecasts and alternative pipeline scenarios. Enbridge says shutting down Line 3 would have an immediate effect on Minnesota by forcing an increase in rail shipments and would costly impact Minnesota's agricultural economy due to increased crude by rail movements. Enbridge also provided crude oil forecasts they say show that even under the most conservative forecast Enbridge's system will remain fully utilized after replacement and Enbridge also said that none of the pipeline systems identified by the Department of Commerce as possible alternatives to a new Line 3 are commercially viable. Now Enbridge communications supervisor Shannon Gustafson said in a press release that Enbridge has built a robust case that meets the criteria for the certificate of need and the company looks forward to a full and fair hearing of all the evidence. A Line 3 pipeline replacement hearing will take place on October 17th at the Sanford Center in Bemidji. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.