Finding of No Significant Impact: Portland Pipe Line Corporation Pipeline at North Troy, VT

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The Department of State has conducted an environmental assessment of the proposed conversion by Portland Pipe Line Corporation of an existing pipeline from natural gas service to crude oil service crossing the international boundary near North Troy, Vermont. Based on the environmental assessment, the Department of State has concluded that issuance of a Presidential Permit authorizing conversion of the existing pipeline will not have a significant effect on the existing vegetation and wildlife, water resources, land use, air quality and human populations within the United States. In reaching this conclusion, the Department of State considered several alternatives, including a no-action alternative. The return of the pipeline to crude oil transport would have no significant impact on the environment or population since no new construction or ground-disturbing activity is involved. The pipeline is constructed of steel and coated with coal tar to protect against corrosion. It is also cathodically protected with an impressed current system as a further protection against corrosion. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., Council on Environmental