CANTON, SD — The Lincoln County Commission in South Dakota, the state’s fastest-growing region, has been entrenched in a two-year struggle over the crafting of carbon dioxide pipeline regulations. On Christmas Eve, commissioners decided to delay progress on four proposed ordinances regarding the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project, a development with significant economic and environmental implications for South Dakota and its neighbors.
Lincoln County, where the prairie landscapes meet burgeoning communities, symbolizes both the promise and challenges of modern infrastructure projects. The proposed $9 billion pipeline intends to transport pressurized CO2 from ethanol plants spread across Iowa, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Nebraska to an underground sequestration site in North Dakota. The ambition is to mitigate climate change through federal tax incentives, but meeting every county’s regulatory demands presents significant hurdles for Summit Carbon Solutions.
While Lincoln County has not adopted the strict regulations seen in other South Dakota counties, local debates remain heated. Recent elections saw anti-pipeline candidates like Betty Otten gain seats on the commission, reflecting a shift in public sentiment that could redefine county policies.
The ordinances were shaped by public hearings and a committee’s recommendations but face conflicting views. Commissioner Jim Jibben and Mike Poppens, both of whom lost their primaries to anti-pipeline advocates, have navigated with care—as much debated by the community as the project itself.
Michael Poppens, District 4 Commissioner, recused himself from prior debates due to personal dealings with Summit but has actively participated in keeping the discussion alive. He has ties with diverse local bodies, including the Airport Liaison Board and the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, reflecting his commitment to regional development.
Despite the significant potential economic boon, opposition remains strong. Lincoln County residents voiced unanimous disapproval of the proposed ordinances during the meeting. “I’m opposed to all of them,” declared Commissioner-elect Betty Otten, echoing the concerns of many.
The future of these ordinances rests with new commission members, who will enter office in January. Until then, the matter remains unresolved—a likely subject of intense scrutiny and debate for the incoming team and the residents of Lincoln County. While differing opinions persist, the shared goal remains the sustainable growth of South Dakota.
As Lincoln County stands at this crossroads, its people and elected officials must weigh immediate logistics against long-term opportunities, charting a course that respects the land and its stewards.
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