Exxon to replace Montana pipeline

Exxon Mobil aims to install a new section of its ruptured oil pipeline in Montana more than 40 feet under the Yellowstone River, the state officials said. Exxon Mobil, owner of the 12-inch Silvertip crude oil pipeline, said in July that about 1,000 barrels of oil spilled into the Yellowstone River near Billings, Mont. The pipeline was buried 5 feet below the riverbed.Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer announced that he formed a pipeline oversight committee to review the status of all oil pipelines underneath the state's rivers and streams. The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation announced it would conduct an environmental assessment of Exxon's plans to replace the ruptured section of Silvertip.The DNRC said a temporary construction license for Exxon Mobil outlines a new section of the pipeline installed at least 42 feet below the riverbed."DNRC is conducting the environmental assessment under the Montana Environmental Policy Act and is interested in hearing public comment on the impacts that may occur as a result of issuing the license and easement," the agency said in a statement.