Another fracked gas pipeline has been derailed in North Carolina, at least temporarily. Last week, the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) denied the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) a key water quality permit.

The Mainline section of the pipeline would start in West Virginia and run through Virginia. The Southgate portion would then connect to the end of MVP Mainline and run through Rockingham and Alamance Counties, North Carolina. Along the way, it would cross 207 streams, the Dan River, and Stony Creek Reservoir (Burlington’s main drinking water source).

The DEQ Secretary and other top environmental enforcement positions are filled by the governor. If that office changes hands in November, expect a drop in scrutiny of pipeline permits and a glide path for polluters. Our Conservation PAC has endorsed incumbent Gov. Roy Cooper for re-election.